3 bold predictions for Alabama vs LSU in make-or-break game for Crimson Tide

2. Jahmyr Gibbs shines with 200+ total yards

Though it was a pedestrian performance for Jahmyr Gibbs in the 30-0 win over Mississippi State prior to last week’s bye for Bama, the highly touted Georgia transfer had been on an absolute tear in the three games prior with 226 total yards against Arkansas, 167 against Texas A&M and even 151 against Tennessee.

Gibbs is an elite talent that can affect the game both as a traditional runner and, just as importantly, as a weapon in the passing game that takes pressure off of a receiving corps that has been inconsistent at best for the Tide this year.

Bill O’Brien has been under fire all season for some of his decision-making as the offensive coordinator but it would be crazy for him to not rely on Gibbs in this matchup against a run defense and linebacker group that can be shaky. As a result, the running back is going to give a monster performance for his team to keep them in it.

1. LSU stuns Alabama with upset in a shootout

First and foremost, I expect a ton of points in this game. Both defenses have been far too generous when they’ve faced the better offenses on the schedule this season. Yes, the games between these two rivals have often been low-scoring in the past, but these aren’t the same caliber of defenses that we’re used to seeing from Alabama and LSU.

Subsequently, I don’t see the Crimson Tide being to pull away in this game and that will give the Tigers the opportunity to stay in it and potentially pull off the upset. And maybe this is recency bias, but what Daniels has shown me recently gives me faith that he can carry his team in the big moments.

When you combine that with my lack of faith in both O’Brien and Pete Golding, I think LSU comes up with just one more stop than Bama and gets the monumental win that not only knocks Alabama out of the Playoff race, but puts the Tigers on a clear path to the SEC Championship Game and opens the door for a CFP berth of their own.

For more College Football news, analysis, opinion and unique coverage by FanSided, including Heisman Trophy and College Football Playoff rankings, be sure to bookmark these pages.