LSU vs. Alabama Predictions: The 4 Best Ways to Beat Each Team's Defense

We've been waiting a little over a month for the national championship to take place between Alabama and LSU. Many may not agree with the matchup, but you can't deny the fact that this should be a great game between two SEC powerhouses.

Both teams play fantastic defense, and the outcome should come down to the wire.

With the game only hours away from kicking off, here's how you can beat each team's defense.

Russell Shepard for LSU

The speedster junior wide receiver Russell Shepard hasn't really contributed to this LSU team this year, but he is extremely talented. He's a versatile receiver who can also run the ball, as he ran for over 200 yards his first two seasons.

His speed helps stretch the defense and gives the quarterbacks another weapon along with Rueben Randle.

Shepard hasn't done much this year due to suspensions and a few other reasons, but he could be the X-factor for the LSU offense and the secret weapon to help beat Alabama's defense.

Jordan Jefferson for LSU

The Tigers have two quarterbacks that will see time in this game, but there is only one that gives the Alabama defense fits. Of course, it's Jordan Jefferson.

Jefferson's ability to run the football really changes things for the defense and gives them something else to focus on. He had 43 rushing yards in the last game and even picked up a few first downs with his legs to keep the drive alive.

Alabama would much rather see Jarrett Lee in this game, but something tells me they're going to see a lot more of Jefferson because it gives the Tigers an extra weapon.

Trent Richardson for Alabama

There is no offensive player in this game that is more important than Trent Richardson. The guy is an absolute beast and is really responsible for the majority of the Crimson Tide's offensive production.

The problem is that in the last game he didn't get the ball enough. He only had 23 carries and didn't touch the ball at all in the overtime period. This is a Heisman candidate; you have to ride him until his wheels fall off.

It's only a matter of time before he breaks off a big run. And at the very least, a heavy dose of No. 3 would ware down the opposing defense.

Stay out of Long Conversions

Neither one of these teams want to throw the football and have to trust their quarterback. They both want to run the football and play conservative. When that's the game plan there is nothing worse than being stuck in 3rd-and-long.

It's nearly impossible to get a chunk of yardage in one play and with these streaky quarterbacks, it only increases the possibility of an interception. Get positive yardage every play and the offense will have a better chance of moving the chains.

Whichever team stays out of long conversions will likely finish with more points at the end of the game.

Randy Chambers is a B/R Featured Columnist that covers college football and the NFL. You can contact him @Randy_Chambers or [e-mail]