We have about another six months until the regular season finale and rivalry game known as the "Iron Bowl", but that isn't stopping Las Vegas from making bets on it.
Auburn is an early 18-point underdog at Alabama, according to betting lines released Friday by South Point Casino in Las Vegas. The three-touchdown betting line is one of the largest spreads in recent years for the rivalry. Even taking into account that the game is at Bryant-Denny Stadium, that seems a little steep.
It shouldn't be a surprise that Alabama will enter the season as the favorite of this 81st rendition of the game. The Crimson Tide has won four of the last five and has a two-year winning streak right now. However, that margin does seem pretty big and that should concern the Tigers considering what might be on the line —- besides pride of course.
The last six winners of the Iron Bowl have advanced to the BCS National Championship or the College Football playoff, including four appearances by the Tide. Auburn made it to the national title game against Florida State in the 2013 season.
[h/t SEC Country]