SEC Rivals Rematch in BCS National Championship

The LSU Tigers dominated every team they played this season, except the Alabama Crimson Tide. LSU outscored the rest of their opponents 491-131. The game earlier this season against Alabama ended in a LSU 9-6 win, even though the Crimson Tide had opportunities to win. The loss seemed to knock Alabama out of the national title picture, but they won the remainder of their games and got some help from other teams. This meant that the Crimson Tide earned a rematch against LSU to determine who would win the BCS National Championship.

As I already mentioned, LSU has dominated opponents so far in their undefeated season. After coming off a suspension, quarterback Jordan Jefferson took over the reigns of the offense from Jarrett Lee. Jefferson is a dual threat and ran for 248 yards. He was one of five Tigers to run for at least that many yards in what is a balanced and deep running attack to say the least. Then, there is the highly-acclaimed LSU defense. They are led in the secondary by two All-American cornerbacks (the first time one team has ever had both), Tyrann Mathieu and Morris Claiborne. Mathieu turned in a season so impressive that he was a Heisman finalist and widely considered to be one of the most dynamic all-around players in the country. Honey Badger, which he likes to be referred to as, had two interceptions, six forced fumbles, and is a prolific punt returner, averaging 16.2 yards per return. The secondary definitely benefits from the great pass rush generated by the Tigers that led to 37 sacks. Defensive ends Sam Montgomery (9.0 sacks) and Barkevious Mingo (8.0 sacks) were responsible for much of the pressure.

The Alabama offense clearly relies on their top running back, Heisman finalist Trent Richardson. Richardson ran for 1583 yards and 20 touchdowns, but was held to 89 rushing yards in the first game against LSU. The Crimson Tide will also need quarterback A.J. McCarron to step up his game. McCarron has to be careful with the ball and make good decisions for his team. Alabama's defense has had just as dominant a defense this year as LSU. They are led by two All-American linebackers Courtney Upshaw and Dont'a Hightower. Upshaw had 8 1/2 sacks and 17 tackles for a loss during the season, while Hightower added a team-leading 81 tackles, 9 1/2 of those for a loss, and 3 sacks.

One of the keys for LSU is the play of quarterback Jordan Jefferson. Jefferson has been inconsistent at times this season and still shows some rust from missing the first four games of the season because of suspension. One of the keys for Alabama is finishing off drives. We know field goal kicking helped cost them the win in the last matchup, but the offense needs to do better. The Crimson Tide need to try and find the endzone, or at least set up shorter field goal attempts for their kickers.

While anything is possible, I expect another game dominated by these outstanding defenses. This is a difficult game to pick. Both teams matchup very well, and I expect it to be another close game. While it is difficult to beat a great team twice, I think that LSU gets it done. The Tigers have the difference makers and depth to get the job done. Prediction: LSU 20 Alabama 13