But the fans—yes, the fans—will be the emotional ones at this battleground, and that just adds fuel to the fire that is known as Death Valley. The only thing that may keep this stadium on its foundation is the fact that CBS has selected this game for the afternoon kickoff, thus nullifying Tiger fans of the joy they long for in wreaking havoc in the darkness of night.
And, oh yeah, a Crimson victory would secure a spot for Alabama in the SEC Championship Game as the Western Division champions, a feat that Bama has not accomplished yet this century.
So I would say this is a pretty significant game in a lot of ways.
Bama Will Win If...
1) The Tide applies the pressure up front on defense.
Alabama has the personnel to shut down most offensive attacks if they simply play within themselves, don't try to go beyond their own individual abilities, and rely on each other as a unit.
The change to the 3-4 defense just before the season began has been the saving grace for Bama in a lot of ways this season. Dominating the front line with three men, thanks to JUCO standout Terrence Cody, allows an extra linebacker to roam around as a virtual headhunter.
Usually that comes in the form of Rolando McClain, Dont’a Hightower, or converted safety Corey Reamer. Watch for the tackles being made throughout the game, and you will most likely see the numbers 25, 30, and 13 somewhere in the mix.
If the Tide defense can come out and continue to dominate the rushing game, as they have all season, then that puts all the pressure on young LSU QB Jarrett Lee. Once the rush is stopped, and Lee has been put under the pressure as well, we’ll see what type of ability he really has.
Add in a few licks from Bama’s quick corner blitz, and most likely they will have the Tigers’ offense contained.
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