Preview of Alabama at LSU

    You can throw the rankings out of the window on Saturday night with the Alabama Crimson Tide travels to Baton Rouge to take on the LSU Tigers.

    Its easy to say Alabama will run away with this game due to the issues that LSU has at the quarterback position, but its not that simple. Across the board both teams are almost identical. Both ranking in the top 10 for allowing points on defense, and both rely heavy on the running game Alabama averaging 214.4 rushing yards and LSU averaging 208.4 yards. Who will be able to impose their will is the question.

    Its clear that Alabama holds the advantage at the quarterback position with AJ McCarron, meanwhile LSU has the advantage with their defensive front. Outside of turnovers, 3rd down will determine the game for the most part.

    Alabama will win if they can force LSU into tough situations on 3rd down. Alabama wants Mettenberger to have to beat them through the air, meaning 3rd and long situations when he has to throw the ball.

    Seeing that LSU holds the advantage with their front four, they are going to have to be able to hit McCarron and sack him with the opportunity presents itself. LSU must avoid getting put into 3rd and long situations, knowing Mettenberger has struggled through the air.

    I don't expect this to be an high scoring affair, Alabama has to get after Mettenberger, and LSU has to keep Mettenberger out of 3rd and long situations. With that being said we will see who imposes their will Saturday night.

Justin Thomas
ESPN 730 Blogger
Twitter: @JTyree704
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