re: Why do LSU fans try and create a fictitious rivalry with Alabama ?

It's not YET a "rivalry game". Yes, Bamas rival games are UT and AU. LSUs rival game is Ole Miss.

Does that have anything to do with whether the respective teams are scared of taking an L in that game? Hell no! It's about tradition.

Who is Bama concerned about as far as their path to the SEC West/SEC/Playoffs? LSU. No question. No debate.

Nick making sure they have the bye prior to playing LSU should make it as plain as day even to those wearing Bama rose colored glasses. There is really only one West team at this point that can throw a monkey wrench in Bama's plan, and it's LSU.

So rivalry? Maybe not. Only game they're genuinely worried about? No question. Deny it if you want to.