ATLANTA, GA- The Southeastern Conference Championship has come down to Florida and Alabama. Florida is the favorite, according to Las Vegas, and Alabama is undefeated. Florida has scored 26 or more points in every game they've played this year, as they lead the SEC in scoring. Alabama, on the other hand, has the #1 Defense in the SEC.

Offense

On offense, Florida brings new meaning to the word "spread", as they like to spread the ball around to all of their playmakers. The Gators have 5 different players that have 50 or more carries this year. They have 8 different players with at least 10 catches this year. Even with Percy Harvin questionable due to injury, Florida has plenty of playmakers to throw at the Crimson Tide. Alabama, on the other hand, likes to "pound the rock" with massive left tackle Andre Smith and his fellow linemen paving the way for running back Glen Coffee. When they pass, the Tide looks to super freshman Julio Jones, who has 46 catches for 723 yards receiving. Quarterback John Parker Wilson has been solid, but has thrown 6 picks to go with his 9 TD's.....so give the edge to Florida.

Defense

Alabama (#1)and Florida (#2) have the top two defensive units in the league. Alabama is giving up fewer total yards-per-game than Florida. And, the real difference is rushing defense, where Bama is giving up about 30 less yards-per-game than the Gators. And, while Florida leads the league in Red Zone defense, Alabama leads the league in keeping teams out of the red zone!!! Basically, teams are reaching the Red Zone twice as many times against Florida, as opposed to Alabama.............so give the edge to Alabama.

Bottom Line

Alabama has steamrolled through their schedule undefeated at 12-0 and seam to be a team of destiny. Florida has been nearly unstoppable on offense, leading them to a record of 11-1. The only team to beat the Gators was Ole Miss, who out-rushed them and won the turnover battle 3 to 1. This is a big reason I give Alabama a chance. I believe the keys to the game will be: solid defense, winning the turnover battle and keeping Florida's offense off of the field with the running game. While much of the media will talk about Florida's offense, make no mistake.......If Alabama can continue to dominate with the ground game, the Tide will be rolling on Saturday night!! The Gators definitely have the edge in playmakers and speed, but, they have yet to face a defense of Alabama's caliber and a running game as punishing as the Tides. This matchup promises to be a great one, so, sit back and enjoy it Saturday afternoon at 4pm.