Alabama vs. LSU 2011: 3 Keys to a Crimson Tide Beatdown

If you don't know about this one, you've been living under a rock.

No. 1 LSU travels to No. 2 Alabama this week in a matchup that will likely decide one-half of the national championship. 

Here's a look at three keys for the Tigers to stay at No. 1.

Stop Trent Richardson

Just like most SEC teams, Alabama loves to run the football. Trent Richardson, however, is a head above most other backs in the SEC.

The Crimson Tide run the ball on nearly 57 percent of their plays and Trent Richardson, the consensus No. 1 running back in the up-coming NFL draft, is averaging a stout 6.6 yards per carry. If LSU wants to slow down Alabama's offense, it starts with the run.

Good thing LSU has one of the best rush defenses in the country. They are allowing just 2.8 yards per carry which is eighth best in the nation.

The Tigers have shut down backs like LaMichael James, Chris Rainey and had minimal success against Michael Dyer.

Of course, none of those guys really have the power that Richardson has, but it's encouraging the Tigers have been so stout. 

A.J McCarron has been good behind center for the Crimson Tide, but LSU would be much happier if Alabama had to lean more on him. 

Win the Field-Position Battle

It's not tough to make an argument that Alabama has the best defense in the country. They are giving up just 6.9 points per game, 180 yards per game, 1.7 yards per rush and opposing QBs are completing just 48 percent of their passes.

Alabama ranks No. 1 in the nation in all of those categories.

The Crimson Tide are incredibly stout, yes, but they don't force a whole lot of turnovers. LSU, on the other hand, is one of the best teams in the country at forcing and limiting turnovers.

The Tigers are going to have grind this game out, turn it into a defensive battle, execute on special teams and control field position. 

Then wait for the big play.

One or two big plays will easily win this game. It seems obvious, but just stay smart, be patient, don't try to over-do anything. It won't work against Alabama's defense. You have to wait for your shots and take advantage when they are there. 

Don't Come Out Slow

Listen, it's No. 1 vs. No. 2. Besides the national championship, this is the biggest game of the year in the country. It's going to be very easy to come out nervous and start out slow.

But the Tigers can't let that happen.

If they fall behind early, it's going to be incredibly hard to come back. Especially at Alabama, where the crowd will be especially loud.