**Alabama Set to Face Tennessee After Narrow Escape Against South Carolina**

Following a nail-biting victory over South Carolina, Heisman Trophy candidate Jalen Milroe and the No. 7 Alabama Crimson Tide (12-1) are preparing to take on the No. 11 Tennessee Volunteers in an SEC showdown on Saturday. Alabama escaped with a slim 27-25 win last week, and they'll now hit the road to face Tennessee, hoping to solidify their standing as 3-point favorites in this key conference game.

The Crimson Tide, with a record of 5-1, share the second-best odds to win the SEC with Georgia at +450, according to latest figures. Tennessee also holds a 5-1 record and enters the game after a 23-17 victory over Florida. However, the win didn't prevent the Volunteers from slipping three spots in the AP rankings. Regarding the College Football Playoff, Alabama's chances are pegged at -450, while Tennessee sits at +115.

Tennessee has experienced a rocky transition into SEC play. After starting the season 3-0 against relatively weaker opponents, the Volunteers have managed just 25 or fewer points in their last three conference games. Freshman quarterback Nico Iamaleava has been under the spotlight, struggling to maintain consistency. He's averaged only 174 passing yards over these games and has thrown merely one touchdown pass, suffering 10 sacks due to his propensity to hold onto the ball too long.

Alabama's defense is poised to take advantage of Iamaleava's current form. Quandarrius Robinson, with seven tackles for loss and four sacks, leads a fierce defensive front. Given Iamaleava's pattern of difficulties under pressure, Alabama's pass rush aims to be a significant factor. Iamaleava's issues are highlighted by his statistics: just 4.7 yards per attempt under pressure and several turnover-worthy plays, even when not blitzed. This vulnerability aligns well with Alabama's defensive strategy, making them a significant threat.

In addition, Alabama's defense ranks eighth in run defense and could force Tennessee to rely more on their passing game, where Iamaleava's struggles may continue. Alabama's mix of formidable pass rush and strategic coverage is likely to overwhelm a Tennessee offense that's been grappling with consistency.

In summary, unless Tennessee's freshman quarterback can quickly settle his nerves and make decisive plays, Alabama looks set to dominate this matchup and cover the spread. The Crimson Tide's well-rounded defensive unit could spell trouble for the Volunteers as they head into this crucial SEC clash.