Sunday, January 18, 2026

Home / Free Picks / College Basketball / USF at Alabama Prediction, Picks, and Odds Movement for December 17 2025

USF at Alabama Prediction, Picks, and Odds Movement for December 17 2025

By: Kyle Kargel Published 12/17/2025, 09:16 AM ET

South Florida vs Alabama picks take center stage in a non-conference showdown that pairs familiarity with contrasting styles, and this matchup is firmly on the radar for bettors looking for college basketball picks ahead of Wednesday’s slate.

TLDR - Picks and Prediction

  • Spread: South Florida +14.5
  • Total: Under 181
  • Projected Final Score: Alabama 90, South Florida 78

Sign Up for StatSalt News Alerts, Get Free Picks and Discounts

Subscribe Now

I understand that I can unsubscribe at any time. I have read and accepted the Terms & Conditions and Privacy Policy. I consent that StatSalt may use third-party services to process my data.

Stats to Know for South Florida vs Alabama

  • South Florida has gone under the total in four of its last five games.
  • The Bulls have shot just 29.9 percent from three-point range over their last five contests.
  • Alabama and Arkansas State combined for 167 points last season when Bryan Hodgson coached the RedWolves.
  • The current total has been bet up from the high 170s into the low 180s.

Odds and Line Movement

Team Spread Odds
South Florida +14.5 -102
Alabama -14.5 -120
Total Over Under
181 -110 -110

Line Movement - Spread

Date South Florida Alabama
12/17 +14.5 (-102) -14.5 (-120)
12/16 +14.5 (-102) -14.5 (-120)
12/16 +15.5 (-110) -15.5 (-110)

Line Movement - Total

Date Over Under
12/16 181 (-110) 181 (-110)
12/16 180 (-110) 180 (-110)
12/16 179 (-110) 179 (-110)

South Florida vs Alabama Game Preview and Analysis

Alabama and head coach Nate Oats have made a habit of scheduling games against former assistants, and this matchup continues that trend. South Florida head coach Bryan Hodgson spent four seasons under Oats in Tuscaloosa and has already shown he can make life uncomfortable for his former boss. While at Arkansas State last season, Hodgson’s team had Alabama tied with seven minutes remaining.

This version of South Florida may be even more dangerous. The Bulls enter this game off impressive wins against Western Kentucky, Utah State and Charleston, and they have had a full week to prepare for Alabama’s high-octane attack. Early in the season, South Florida played at a blistering pace, but Hodgson has slowed things down slightly, especially as the Bulls’ three-point shooting has cooled.

Alabama will still look to push tempo, but South Florida’s recent defensive results and shooting profile point toward a more controlled game than the market total suggests. The Crimson Tide have the talent edge and should be able to separate late, but I am expecting the Bulls to execute a disciplined game plan aimed at limiting possessions and shot quality.

  • South Florida has gone under the total in four of its last five games.
  • Recent totals have climbed from 177 to 181.
  • South Florida is receiving the majority of spread tickets.

Key Injuries and Notes - USF and BAMA

  • Bryan Hodgson faces his former head coach for the second straight season.
  • South Florida enters with a full week of rest and preparation.

Final Score Prediction

Alabama 90, South Florida 78

ATS and Total Picks

  • Against the Spread: South Florida +14.5
  • Total: Under 181
BetMGM Sport

Up To $1500 in Bonus Bets Paid Back if your First Bet Does Not Win

Show Bonus Code
Bet now
Signup Promo Recommended
Min. Deposit $5
Cashable No
Bet365

Bet $5 & Get $200 in Bonus Bets Win or Lose

Show Bonus Code
Bet now
Signup Promo Hot Offer
Wagering 1x Bonus
Odds Requirements -500
Cashable Yes
FanDuel Sportsbook

Bet $5 Get $300 in Bonus Bets If Your Bet Wins!

Show Bonus Code
Bet now
Signup Promo Hot Offer
Min. Deposit $5
Wagering 1x Deposit
Cashable No
Join 250k sports fans & receive free picks
Special Offer
Up To $1500 in Bonus Bets Paid Back if your First Bet Does Not Win
Play now Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER (Available in the US) Call 877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY) Call 1-800-327-5050 (MA) 21+ only. Please Gamble Responsibly. Call 1-800-NEXT-STEP (AZ), 1-800-BETS-OFF (IA), 1-800-981-0023 (PR). Rewards are non-withdrawable bonus bets that expire in 7 days. In partnership with Kansas Crossing Casino and Hotel. See BetMGM.com for Terms. US promotional offers not available in DC, Mississippi, New York, Nevada, Ontario, or Puerto Rico.