LSU Football: 3 Aspects of the Tigers Game Key to Defeating Alabama

With just over one week to go until the matchup of all matchups between the top two teams in the nation in LSU and Alabama is set to occur, it is time to break down some keys to the Tigers ultimate victory over the Crimson Tide on their home turf in Tuscaloosa.

Some are calling it the game of the century as it involves the Nos. 1 and 2 ranked teams in the country, and the only time two top-ranked SEC teams have met in a game other than the conference championship game.

This is the most important game for the BCS this season as the winner will most likely play for the national title in January, with the loser falling out of the top two ranked teams.

The Tigers have some key aspects of their game that if executed properly will result in a win for LSU.

Jordan Jefferson's Integration into LSU's Offense

Since Jordan Jefferson has returned to the LSU Tigers lineup as the backup to quarterback Jarrett Lee, the Tigers have successfully integrated him into their offense whether it be to run the ball or just add another dimension to the Tigers' game.

Jefferson is crucial to the success of the Tigers against the nation's No. 1 defense. His speed when rushed out of the pocket has resulted in 111 yards on the ground at two touchdowns in just four games played.

The change of pace Jefferson adds when placed under center is huge and can allow Jarrett Lee to have success, as well as the uncertainty as to which QB will be in for any given play, could throw 'Bama off. 

Most people won't put too much weight on Jefferson's role in this game, but his success could be a game-changer.

Establishing the Run

In addition to the performance of Jordan Jefferson, the Tigers' run game will be extremely important to the success of the offense on Nov. 5 in Tuscaloosa. Alabama has the best run defense in the nation allowing just 44 yards a game on the ground, 30 yards less than the next best run defense. 

The Tigers bring the nations 29th best run game, but more importantly a very versatile backfield into this game. LSU is led in rushing by Spencer with 512 yards in seven games, but not far behind is Michael Ford with 441 and Alfred Blue with 252. Combined, the three backs have 16 touchdowns, accounting for over half of the Tigers overall scoring offense this season. 

In order to establish the run, the Tigers offensive line and blocking schemes will need to be perfect against Alabama and open up holes for their powerful backs to get downfield. If the Tigers want to have any success offensively against the Crimson Tide, the run game must get going, and if the past few games are any sign, the run game is only getting better each week.

Tigers Defense Must Outplay the Nation's No. 1 Defense in Alabama

The biggest pressure for this game will be placed on the LSU Tigers defense. The Tigers D comes into this game ranked third in the nation, unfortunately Alabama is ranked No. 1. The Tigers' best defense has to show up for this game and limit the points put on the board by the 14th ranked scoring offense of the Crimson Tide.

This game will mark the return of Tharold Simon and Tyrann Mathieu to the Tigers defense, so they will be at full strength against Trent Richardson and the Alabama offense. LSU is allowing just 76 yards a game on the ground, and if they can limit Richardson to that average, they will stunt the success of the Alabama offense. Without a successful Richardson, the Crimson Tide offense isn't anything special. 

The defensive line led by Michael Brockers, Barkevious Mingo and Sam Montgomery have combined for 21 tackles for a loss, and if they can limit Richardson and put pressure on AJ McCarron, they will be very successful against Alabama.

'Bama has allowed 12 sacks this season, and the Tigers have successfully taken down the opposition QB 19 times this season. Pressure on McCarron is key to the success of the Tigers defense against the Tide.

This game will most likely come down to defense, and if LSU can execute their defensive game plan to perfection, they should walk away with the victory and undisputed No. 1 ranking in the nation.