LSU vs. Alabama: Why Tigers Will Complete Dream Season

Whether or not you approve of Alabama facing LSU in this year's National Championship, you have to admit it is a compelling story.

The first time these two teams battled it out it was dubbed as the "Game of the Century." The matchup didn't feature a ton of offense, but that's just because the defenses are hands down the best in the country.

Now, for the first time ever in the BCS era, the National Championship will consist of a rematch. A lot of people don't like that, but there's no denying the talent of these two teams.

Oddly enough, most of the predictions I've seen have Alabama, who lost the first battle, knocking off LSU. 

It appears that LSU's season-long dominance and history-making season are going right over the heads of some, so I'll attempt to clear things up.

Jordan Jefferson

When the Tigers faced Alabama earlier in the season, Jefferson was sharing time with fellow quarterback Jarrett Lee. 

Jefferson was never able to really get going, but he did complete 60 percent of his passes for 67 yards while rushing for another 43. Lee, on the other hand, struggled and threw two picks.

However, Jefferson has now taken over the reins as full time starter. He's much more capable than Lee of breaking off a big play and during a defensive battle he will be a huge factor. 

Jefferson knows how to play game-manager, but he also knows when to let it loose. 

Turnover Battle

The first time around, these two teams tied the turnover battle 2-2 (remember, both of LSU's came from Lee).

I foresee LSU winning it this time. On the season, the Tigers have forced 2.4 turnovers per game (14th in the country) while the Crimson Tide have forced just 1.6 (71st). 

Also, don't forget LSU has that Tyrann Mathieu guy, who is a pretty good ball-hawk himself. If he doesn't make a big play or four I would be pretty surprised. 

Special Teams

Speaking of Mathieu, he gives the Tigers quite the advantage in the kick and punt return (which there will be a lot of) games.

Furthermore, Alabama showed in the first game its kickers can't be relied on. If this one is close, and it definitely will be, it could very well come down to field goals again.

If that's the case, I trust LSU way more.

Prediction: LSU 20, Alabama 17