Alabama vs. LSU: QBs Will Be Difference in Championship Rematch

The rematch between No. 1 LSU and No. 2 Alabama may not be the most anticipated National Championship in recent history, but it will surely be an exciting matchup.

Well, it may not be exciting to those who are fans of Oklahoma State and West Virginia, but it will be a great matchup for old school football fans.

These are two of the best defenses in the country. Alabama finished the season ranked first in the nation in scoring defense. LSU was right behind them with a second-place ranking. These two teams depend heavily on their defense and a power running game in order to win games.

It was that strategy that led to a 9-6 overtime slugfest the first time they matched up. Both teams played tough defense and tried to run the ball. Neither had much success.

The talent at the running back position is just about even between the two teams as well. Alabama boasts the best NFL prospect in the nation in Trent Richardson. LSU has a future NFL player in Michael Ford.

On paper, these teams really are almost identical.

That is, except for one key position. It's the position that many would consider the most important on the team.

How do the quarterbacks on the field stack up against one another?

This is where the Crimson Tide do have the advantage. A.J. McCarron isn't going to amaze anybody with his arm strength or accuracy. He is, however, a very efficient player.

LSU, on the other hand, has flipped back and forth between Jordan Jefferson and Jarrett Lee all season.

The first time these two teams met, LSU's quarterbacks combined for less than 100 passing yards and threw two interceptions. McCarron wasn't spectacular either, but his 199 passing yards at least gave Alabama a little balance.

All McCarron has to do in this game is put up one or two big plays.

The Alabama defense can focus heavily on the run game and shut down LSU yet again. It may take just one touchdown to take this game.

McCarron has a better shot at leading his team on that drive than either of the quarterbacks in the Tiger's backfield.