They are probably assuming we will be resting a bunch of guys to make sure they are ready for the SEC Championship Game the following week.

Historically speaking this is accurate.

Even in years we were the better team and should have won, sip has a magical ability to get the calls (targeting, etc) or make miracle plays (like Colt McCoy running for about 57 yards on a 3rd and 56 to get the critical 1st down).

Until we beat them consistently, especially in years we should win, they will be favored.

I am starting to wonder how much of ESPN's analytics and on-air analysis is intended to drive betting. It was one thing when they would push one team over another to drive ratings but when it is used to push bets to one side or another on the ESPN Sportsbook, it feels like a grey area.

Yea, well, ESPN has always been in love with the sips.