LSU vs. Alabama Rematch: Special Teams Will Be Difference in Tigers' Victory

When the No. 1 LSU Tigers and No. 2 Alabama Crimson Tide played each other on Nov. 5, neither offense was particularly good, and both defenses were fantastic. The key to the game, however, was special teams, and I expect that to be the case once again in the BCS National Championship Game.

The Tigers came out on top 9-6 in overtime in the previous meeting between these two teams, but the Crimson Tide easily could have won if not for a number of special teams blunders. The combination of Jeremy Shelley and Cade Foster missed four field goals, essentially handing LSU the victory.

LSU, on the other hand, was flawless in that regard as kicker Drew Alleman was cool and collected in nailing all three of his field goal tries. With both defenses on top of their respective games, special teams will be crucial once again and the Tigers hold a decided advantage in that area.

While some may say that all Alabama needs is a slight improvement on special teams from last game in order to win, that is much easier said than done. The Tigers and head coach Les Miles can feel comfortable sending Alleman on the field, but Alabama head coach Nick Saban certainly can't be enamored by either of his kickers.

Field-goal kicking isn't the only advantage LSU holds on special teams, however. Punter Brad Wing of the Tigers may very well be the best punter in the nation as he is very adept at pinning opponents inside the 20-yard line. Field position is sure to be a major factor in this game, and the Tigers have a weapon that can flip the field over in an instant.

Then, on top of all that, LSU has the most prolific punt returner in the nation in Tyrann Mathieu. As good as Mathieu is as a defensive back, his return skills are likely what helped him become a Heisman Trophy finalist. Even if Alabama makes a concerted effort to keep the ball away from him, it could certainly adversely affect some punts.

Unless both offenses make marked improvements from the first game, it is going to be the little things that will ultimately decide which team hoists the Coaches' Trophy at the end of the night. The Crimson Tide are a great team, but the Tigers are No. 1 and undefeated for a reason, and that is because they execute in every facet.

Special teams may not always be considered as important as offense or defense, but there are three phases to every game for a reason. When it comes to offense and defense, it is quite apparent that the Tigers and Tide are at a stalemate. LSU's advantage lies in special teams, however, and that is why the Tigers will be national champions.