Bowl Predictions 2012: The 5 Best BCS Title Game Matchups That Don't Include LSU

Since the game between Alabama and LSU is over, everybody is assuming that the Tigers are guaranteed a spot in the BCS National Championship. The truth is, LSU still has a tough game against a talented Arkansas team, and will also have to win the SEC Championship Game.

Although LSU should run the table, there is a chance they could get tripped up.

Here are the five best National Championship matchups that don't include LSU.

Oklahoma State vs Alabama

How this matchup could happen: Both teams would have to win out of course, and a loss from LSU would also be necessary. A Stanford loss this weekend wouldn't hurt either to help Alabama's case.

This would be a great game that would be a battle between the Crimson Tide's defense and the Cowboys' offense. There would be a lot of NFL talent on the field, from Alabama's Trent Richardson to Oklahoma State's Justin Blackmon.

Stanford vs Boise State

How this matchup could happen: Both teams winning out and losses from LSU, Oklahoma State, Alabama and Oklahoma would be required.

Of course, this matchup is the most unlikely, as it would take a lot to get Boise State in the National Championship Game. Many would think that this game would draw horrible ratings, but I'm sure many would watch to see Andrew Luck vs. Kellen Moore. I would also tune in because I want to see if the Broncos are capable of hanging with the big boys.

Alabama vs Stanford

How this matchup could happen: Both teams winning out and losses from Oklahoma State, LSU and Oklahoma wouldn't hurt. 

This is the matchup that every NFL scout would love to see, because it would match Andrew Luck against a great defense. Luck has looked great in the Pac-12, but no team in that conference has a defense like the Crimson Tide. This would be a big test for him.

Oklahoma State vs Oregon

How this matchup could happen: Both teams winning out and losses from LSU, Alabama, Stanford and Oklahoma would be necessary.

A guy can dream, can't he? If you're a fan of offense, this is the matchup you're hoping for. The over/under in this game would have to be in the 80's. Both teams have offenses that score a ton of points, and both have defenses that bend, but don't break. Defense would be nonexistent in this game.

Oklahoma vs Alabama

How this matchup could happen: Both teams win out and losses from LSU, Oklahoma State and Stanford would be needed.

Two of the most balanced teams in the country square off. This game would also feature a great chess match between head coaches Nick Saban and Bob Stoops. The injury to Sooners wide receiver Ryan Broyles will hurt, but they're deep enough to stay competitive. Although both teams have a loss on their record, you could make an argument that these are the top two teams from top to bottom.

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

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