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LSU-Alabama Matchups
PLAYERS TO WATCH
LSU WR Terrance Toliver
Season stats: Team-high 38 receptions for a team-high 501 yards (13.8 per catch), 3 TDs
Alabama’s secondary may be the best LSU faces all season, meaning whichever side of the field Brandon LaFell lines up on may be blanketed and taken away on a lot of plays. That thrusts Toliver into the spotlight as the primary receiver for Jordan Jefferson, a role both seem comfortable with this season. If Toliver draws one-on-one coverage, he has to win his share of battles and make sure he’s open — especially on third downs and potential big plays against a Tide defense that doesn’t give up many of them.
Alabama CB/KR/PR Javier Arenas
Season stats: 45 tackles (30 solo), 8.5 tackles for loss, 4 sacks, 1 interception, 2 pass breakups, 3 passes defended, 1 QB hurry, 19-320 punt returns (16.8 per return), 10-278 kickoff returns (27.8 per return)
Arenas will be a key in pass defense, likely locking up on either Toliver or LaFell, but his impact will be measurable on special teams as well. Every time Arenas is near the ball, whether it’s when a pass is headed his way, a punt or a kickoff, he is a threat to strike for a big play and he’s no stranger to the end zone. If Arenas makes major impacts in pass defense and special teams, it could equate to a long day for LSU.
MATCHUPS
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QUARTERBACKS
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RUNNING BACKS
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OFFENSIVE LINE
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RECEIVERS
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TIGHT ENDS
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DEFENSIVE LINE
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LINEBACKERS
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DEFENSIVE BACKS
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KICKERS
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KICK RETURNERS
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INTANGIBLES
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COACHING
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PREDICTION
What loomed as a potential mismatch early in the season arrives a showdown with huge implications. LSU has put together back-to-back solid performances against Auburn and Tulane. To win this week, LSU must deliver a performance as close to perfect as the Tigers can get. Alabama isn’t without flaws and the Tide offense has regressed since averaging 40 points per game through the first five outings, with only two offensive TDs in the last three games. But the Bama defense is the best in the SEC with Florida’s, which handcuffed LSU in a 13-3 loss. If the Tigers keep improving offensively and force Alabama to settle for field goals, they can win. But the home crowd and a week off leading in will be enough of an edge for the Tide.
Alabama 20, LSU 17
Randy Rosetta
