Due to recent developments, college football gamblers might want to keep their eye on the Virginia Tech Hokies vs. Alabama Crimson Tide betting line as it is currently favoring the Crimson Tide by a 6.5-chalk at Sportsbetting.com. Monday it was revealed that two key Alabama players, All-SEC receiver Julio Jones and running back Mark Ingram, were taken on a fishing trip paid for by a businessman possibly violating NCAA rules.

The university reported that following an internal investigation, no violations had occurred. Regardless of the schools investigation, the possible violation has been reported to the NCAA. Alabama is currently waiting on a responce from the NCAA.

“I think that is up to the NCAA,” Alabama coach Nick Saban said Wednesday. “I don’t think it’s my decision to do anything. We are hoping for a response, and we want to do what we need to do to do things the right way, from a program standpoint and for the players’ best interest.”

Saban has not said if either of the players will be held out of the game.

Alabama defensive end Brandon Deaderick, who was shot while exiting an automobile at an apartment complex parking lot late Monday night in Tuscaloosa, was released from the hospital Tuesday night. Today it was announced he will miss the game with Virginia Tech.

"Brandon Deaderick obviously will probably miss this game, but he is very fortunate not to be injured any worse than he is," Saban said.

Junior Luther Davis and sophomore Marcell Dareus are the primary candidates to replace Deaderick in the starting lineup.
 
Sportsbetting.com oddsmakers list Alabama at 6-to-1 odds to win the SEC.