"The Game of the Century" Prediction
Today in Tuscaloosa, Alabama, the #2 Alabama Crimson Tide play hosts to the #1 LSU Tigers. The winner of this match will probably go to New Orleans to play for a National Title. These two titans of college football play tonight at 8:00 in what is expected to be a very loud Bryant-Denny Stadium. But who will win?
LSU has a two quarterback system that, by the grace of god, has worked so far. The only team I know of that made this work was the 2006 Florida Gators squad that had both Chris Leak and Superman Tim Tebow. Alabama's defense is the best in the nation and no matter who LSU puts out there at quarterback, Alabama will be ready.
LSU's red zone defense is ranked almost last in the nation, 117th, and they allow opponents to score at will. Again with a talented team like Alabama, shoring up that red zone defense is a must. LSU has a great offense, ranked 12th, and defense, ranked 3rd, they both need to be at the top of their game against Alabama.
Trent Richardson averages 123 yards per game and with the Tides veteran offense line, it is hard to see why not. You can be sure they give Richardson the ball in the red zone against one of the worst red zone defenses in the nation.
Quarterback AJ McCarron is having a great year and is overshadowed by the play of Richardson and 'Bama's defense. McCarron has only turned the ball over eight times this year. However, McCarron hasn't faced a defense as good as LSU's all year.
My prediction is that Alabama will win and, unfortunately, it isn't going to be a close affair. Just looking at Alabama's offensive playmakers and having the best defense in football, it is hard not to pick them. Another plus is that Alabama is playing at home and is a HUGE advantage for the Crimson Tide. The LSU red zone defense scares me enough not to pick them, especially with Trent Richardson as the opposing running back.
After tonight, Alabama will be the new #1 and in the driver's seat for that trip to New Orleans. Roll Tide.
