LSU Players Facing Suspension on Failed Drug Tests. Will It Give Bama the Edge?

Larry Burton (Syndicated Writer) With LSU's famous defensive back, Tyrann Mathieu, the "Honey Badger" and Spencer Ware facing possible suspension for a failed drug tests, does that give Alabama the final edge to not only win the SEC but possibly another national championship?

Many saw LSU as the Tide's greatest hurdle to jump, and the great play of Mathieu and half of the great 1-2 running punch with Spencer Ware was part of the reason.

If the suspensions are for drug use as cited by sources, then the suspensions would not only be for the Auburn game, but could be for the Alabama game and beyond as well.

With these two removed from the Nov. 5 game in Tuscaloosa, the hurdle certainly would be easier for the Crimson Tide to jump.

There could be two other players named, but so far, only defensive back Tharold Simon has been cited along with Mathieu and Ware.

Mathieu has been the inspirational leader of the defensive backfield for LSU and has four forced fumbles  (three he recovered himself and two he returned for scores), 42 tackles and one and a half sacks. He also has two interceptions.

Ware is part of the 1-2 punch of running backs, similar to what Alabama does with its running game. Ware is the Tigers' leading rusher with 512 yards and six touchdowns.

Without these two stars, LSU would be hard pressed to maintain the level of performance they have so far this season, and it couldn't come at a worse time for Les Miles and the Tigers.

Les Miles is set to report on the suspensions of the players in a 6:00 p.m. press conference (CDT).