Welcome everyone to the latest game preview for the LSU Tigers! This week, we take a look at LSU’s big game in Tuscaloosa against Alabama.
Last Week: As is tradition, LSU and Alabama were off last week. Two weeks ago, both teams came out victorious with LSU taking down Ole Miss 40-24 and Alabama dominated Tennessee in Tuscaloosa by the score of 45-7.
Last Meeting: The last time these two faced off, it was another classic with both teams held scoreless through three quarters. Jalen Hurts proved to be the x-factor with a 21-yard run to get out in front early in the fourth quarter, helping the Tide get the win in Tiger Stadium 10-0.
Alabama holds the overall series lead 51-25-5 and has won the last six straight against the Tigers.
Storylines to Watch:
Etling Needs Big Game: With Alabama’s defense, the run game will have a hard time getting past the first level of the defense. That means you’ll need Etling to step up in a big way through the air to start opening up more opportunities on the ground.
It’s easier said than done though because Alabama is towards the top in passing defense with 169.6 passing yards per game and 11 interceptions to six touchdowns. Just last week, Alabama held the Vols to only 44 yards and was sacked four times. If Tennessee is getting sacked that many times, imagine how bad it could be for LSU with their paper-thin depth at the offensive line.
Can Defense Stifle Hurts? As mentioned earlier, Jalen Hurts, was the x-factor the last time these two teams faced off, breaking up the stalemate with a big run in the fourth quarter. LSU’s defense was in control for much of the ballgame last year and has the potential to do much of the same with a lot of their best players healthy and ready to attack the Crimson Tide’s offense.
While Hurts will be someone the Tigers need to keep an eye on, the run game could wind up being the key with Bo Scarbrough and Damien Harris leading the way. Basically, make sure the front lines are ready to stop the run up the gut and the linebackers prepare for some outside runs.
Be Prepared for Kickers Duel: I’m not expecting another 9-6 game like in 2011, but the Tigers are starting to get something going with Connor Culp as their place kicker. That may be the lone edge for the Tigers against Alabama, but it’s not a significant edge.
Andy Pappanastos has gone 13-of-16 on field goals on the season and if it comes down to a kicking game, the Tigers could have a puncher’s chance with the wave of momentum that Culp has had since head coach Ed Orgeron stated that they don’t have a kicker.
LSU Will Win If:
LSU can snap the Crimson Tide’s win streak if the defense steps up in a big way. Jalen Hurts will need to be kept inside the pocket for much of the game with his ability to get free for big runs.
Alabama Will Win If:
Alabama can get the win at home if the offense can continue to fire on all cylinders. They’ve been dominating every team they’ve faced off so far this season and the offense has been the biggest reason why they’ve outscored teams by an absurd differential.
-Clint Domingue