Alabama next big test: LSU

Alabama is sitting pretty at #1 in the BCS rankings and an undefeated record.  Since their big win against Texas A&M, the Crimson Tide has largely gone untested and been dominant every week.  The Aggies were the biggest test of their season to date, but this year the Tide hosts the LSU Tigers in their annual slug fest.

Typically, this game ends up being a low scoring game where defense dominates and points are few, but this year could be a ton of points.  Alabama have been able to put up points this year while still maintaining an excellent defense.  However, they did show vulnerability against the Aggies and the Bayou Bengals have an extremely potent set of playmakers this year.

Zach Mettenberger appears to have finally realized the potential many expected to see from him last year and has been able to facilitate that offense.  The bigger threat from Alabama’s point of view is trying to figure out how to stop LSU’s threats on the outside including Odell Beckham Jr. and Jarvis Landry.  Beckham has been a dynamic receiving threat with great hands, who is also an extremely dangerous returner.  Landry is big, strong and able to create space and make plays in addition to being a great blocker.  That type of passing offense has been the missing piece for LSU for a number of years, but they still have the ability to pound the football like they have been accustomed with running back Jeremy Hill.

LSU may not be quite on the same level as the Aggies behind Johnny Manziel and Mike Evans, but they have the ability to put up a ton of points.  The key for Alabama will be causing turnovers and getting Mettenberger to make mistakes, which he has been prone to do when he gets flustered and is moved off of his spot in the pocket.

Alabama has been a terrific team, but they have been somewhat under the radar in terms of playing a big game or even really a competitive one.  That should change this week when LSU comes to Tuscaloosa, but if Alabama is dominant, they should cruise to the Iron Bowl undefeated.  Meanwhile, if LSU can pull off an upset, they then turn around and have to play Texas A&M next week.