LSU vs. Alabama Rematch: Can the Tigers Win If Jordan Jefferson Struggles?

Jordan Jefferson took over toward the end of the season, and many are wondering if LSU is capable of winning if he struggles against Alabama.

This LSU squad has not been effective in the passing game, and yet they are still on the verge of becoming one of the greatest teams in college football history. The Tigers have arguably zero question marks, though the passing game has been the one chink in their armor.

This question could go in a few different ways, but we should weigh both sides of the story. LSU had Jarrett Lee starting, as he played the majority of the first eight games.

Lee was not the most talented quarterback, but he was effective for an LSU passing offense that currently ranks 105th in the nation (LSU won fairly handily over the five ranked teams it played before it traveled to Tuscaloosa). 

This is not a squad that will roll out and throw it around 40 times again, if ever. LSU was one-dimensional against Alabama, and many figured the Tigers would just run the ball and play it safe with one of the best defenses and special teams in the country.

Lee went 3-of-7 for 24 yards and two interceptions, whereas Jefferson went 6-of-10 for 67 yards without any turnovers in the overtime victory over LSU (9-6).

From that point forward, Lee has only thrown it five times, compared to Jordan Jefferson's (four straight starts) 63 passing attempts. 

Jefferson is not your typical pocket passer, and it has been shown throughout this season and his whole career. His 34 touchdowns and 19 career interceptions in four season are far from a legendary career, but he can tuck it and run.

Clearly, Les Miles believes that Jefferson gives his national championship-quality team an even tougher offense to defend, with his ability to bust off a long run.

The legit foot speed of Jefferson will force Alabama to load up the box. Guys like DeAngelo Peterson, Odell Beckham and Reuben Randle could become major impact players. Jefferson has shown flashes of brilliance, and yet, he has struggled miserably in primetime games before.

Overall, this Alabama defense shut down the passing attack of LSU in the first meeting, and the senior needs to be on top of his game.

If not, there could be disheartened Bayou Bengal fans knowing they fell short in their own backyard of knocking off Alabama again for the BCS National Championship.