re: Alabama vs LSU - Breakdowns

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Alabama ranks #3 in sacks in the country, while LSU ranks #84 in sacks allowed.

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this is what it comes down to. our o-line has stepped up at times but has been really poor overall

I've been waiting for Tua to have his first year starter moment and he just hasn't. I don't think he'll be able to get away with some of the throws he's made early in the year (i.e. Louisville and 1st TD throw vs Tenn), but he's still so good he will inevitably get his. The LSU secondary vs Tua matchup will be a good one. If I'm Alabama, I go to the run early (see UGA's first drive) and go to Irvin Smith Jr early. I feel like a big athletic TE like Smith could really have success vs us. Those body blows will open things up later in the game.

As for LSU, I think you're gonna see a QB who can actually move the ball downfield for us and keep drives going. Very similar to Mett in 2012. Key for us to keep it close will be if we can run at all. If Joe sits in 2nd/3rd & medium, we're likely in for a long night.

I've heard the spread is 14 right now. That seems crazy to me, but I expect this to be a typical Bama/LSU war. They just might have too much firepower in the end and pull away by 7-11.

I don't know if bana is scoring 38 in death valley, but ultimately a great write up

And you are spot on about one thing...can LSU score TDs in the redzone instead of FGs. YUGE question

i think the score is closer than bama's other games for one main reason - long scoring passes. i don't think bama receivers are going to be running wild behind the secondary. i think bama is going to have to go the old fashioned route to get into the ez, which they are certainly capable of doing. it will just affect that gaudy scoring average.

lsu's o is sneaky good. they don't look good on paper but, they can get the job done. tons of super talented players, including the o line. it's been a mash unit yet they've mostly held their own against 5 really good d lines. and the line will be in the best shape all season with brumfeld back out there.

people who think bama is going to light up lsu's d are seriously underestimating aranda. the guy is absolutely capable of throwing some things at tua to challenge his acumen.

i think one of the biggest factors in the game is tua's knee. if he isn't up to 100% running, lsu won't have to worry about contain. they can just rush which will help out the secondary.