Alabama vs LSU Predictions: Tyrann Mathieu Will Be Best Player in BCS Title Game

The 2011 BCS National Championship game is loaded with talented, but LSU cornerback Tyrann Mathieu will be the best player on the field.

That's no small honor, as Alabama and LSU players currently make up more than 20 percent of Scouts Inc.'s list of the top 32 prospects for the upcoming NFL draft.

The sophomore Mathieu, however, is better than them all.

Mathieu has been the spark plug for the 13-0 Tigers, providing countless big plays during their reign of dominance. He is unquestionably the most dynamic all-around player in the country, making momentum-shifting plays on defense and in the return game.

He wreaked havoc all season long, intercepting two passes, forcing six fumbles and registering a team-high 71 tackles. He did all this despite missing one game due to suspension.

As good as he was on defense, Mathieu had an even bigger impact as a punt returner. He returned 33 punts for 420 yards and two touchdowns this season.

Late in the season, when other top teams in the country were faltering, Mathieu put LSU on his shoulders and carried them to the BCS title game.

Against then-third ranked Arkansas on Nov. 25, Mathieu returned three punts for 115 yards, including a 92-yard touchdown.

Just one week later in the SEC championship, he turned the momentum on Georgia by busting out a 62-yard touchdown on a punt return. He finished that game with 119 return yards.

Mathieu is the most dangerous player in the country because of his natural skill, timing and instincts. His versatility also means he can impact the game in more ways than any other player.

If LSU's offense sputters on Monday, you can expect Mathieu to step up and prove why he is the best player on the field.