Iron Bowl 2011: Alabama Will Clinch LSU Rematch with Win vs. Auburn

Normally, I'm not in favor of National Championship Game rematches. The way the system is, it seems like that defeats the purpose of the first game. 

But there are exceptions to every rule. The 2011 NCAA football season is giving us that exception. LSU has already proven itself worthy of being a part of the game. They're 12-0, and even if the Tigers stumble against Georgia in the SEC Title Game, they are clearly worthy of the bid. 

Alabama is the only team to have challenged LSU this season for four quarters. As a matter of fact, I could even say that Alabama was the better team for most of that game. I'm sure fans of the Crimson Tide would like to know how that game would have gone if their kicking game was on point. 

Of all of the teams that have only one loss, Alabama's is by far the most excusable. Oklahoma State comes close, but Iowa State is nowhere near a Top 25 team, let alone LSU. 

Stanford's loss to Oregon was not terrible, but they were blown out by a Ducks team that was blown out by LSU. On top of that, Stanford doesn't have anywhere near the quality of wins that Alabama has. 

The only question is, will Alabama win?

The only thing really working against them in this game is the fact that Auburn will not be a gentle host. The fans will be rabid and the players will come out strong. 

So, the game will be ugly, but that favors Alabama more than Auburn. Ugly games are won by running backs and defenses. Both of those give the Tide a significant edge. 

The rematch is well within Alabama's sights. If they take care of Auburn, then the ticket to New Orleans is as good as punched.

They will need to figure out a way to do more offensively against the Tigers. The National Championship Game is right in LSU's backyard. 

But that's a discussion for another day. With all the confusion that has hit the BCS this year, its biggest game will be very simple. 

All Alabama needs to do is beat Auburn. They will.