Alabama Wins...Again

Another Bama game, another disappointing loss. While the game remained 0-0 for three and a half quarters, LSU was never really in a position to put a real scare in the Crimson Tide. This was a valiant effort by the Tigers. But right now Alabama is just better. Alabama is the best program in the country and possibly the greatest college football dynasty of all time.

A few observations:

The positives first, LSU has a national championship caliber defense. Bama came in averaging 44 points a game and was only able to manage to put up 10 on Saturday. Throw in forcing two turnovers and a great goal line stand, and the defense was just fantastic.

• Beckwith will be All-SEC at the LB position. He has been magnificent all season and a great example of why guys can really benefit from coming back for their senior year.
• The kicking game was solid except for the blocked FG. I had a few choice words for Tre White when he fielded a punt inside of LSU's own five yard line.
• Now for the bad, LSU's offensive line got pushed around all night. The line couldn't open holes or hold the space allowing Fournette to get loose. Bama usually only had seven in the box as well. Pass protection was a problem all night with Etling getting sacked five times.
• Speaking of Etling, he struggled terribly. Even when he got time he couldn't take advantage of the opportunities presented. He hurried throws and just looked uncomfortable all night.
• Fournette also missed a few cut back lanes that he could have exploited with Bama's relentless pursuit.
• In watching the replay, LSU had some opportunities on offense. The play calling was designed to try and give our play makers a chance. But the margin of error was small and the Tigers just couldn't capitalize.

Reality Check

Some people complained about play calling and the struggles on offense. I get it. But folks have to realize that Alabama has a front seven with seven NFL players. LSU's offensive line is good but not special. The Tigers got no push up front which really limits what you can do. Danny Etling can be productive, but he's limited. He's not a threat to run which seems to be a requirement for beating Alabama. LSU must completely revamp the offense and start developing QB's. Nothing will change until the Tigers address the problems that have plagued the program for years.

I mentioned earlier just how dominant Alabama has been since Saban's return in 2007. Look at these crazy numbers.

Opponent	Record
LSU (includes 2011 NC Game)	8-3
Mississippi State	8-1
Ole Miss	8-2
Auburn	6-3
Arkansas	10-0
Texas A&M	4-1
SEC East (includes 5 SEC Title Games)	27-3
Non Conference (including Notre Dame, Michigan, Clemson, Ohio State, Penn State, Oklahoma, Utah, WVU, Wisconsin, Colorado, Va Tech, Texas and Michigan State)	11-3

No one has more has more wins over Alabama than LSU over the last 10 years.

The Hogs

We all know about the hangover effect after the Alabama game. The Tigers have has a few bye weeks this season already so they should be in good shape even after the physical Alabama game. Coach O will stay positive and I still think there is a good vibe around the program. Will the players stay focused now that the SEC Title is out of reach? I think so. Arkansas is 11^th in the SEC giving up almost 200 yards per game. They are also 13^th in the league and 108^th in the nation in 3^rd down conversion defense. If LSU's offensive line can regroup for a good showing, the Tigers should put up plenty of points.

LSU 34 – Ark 20

Playoffs Week 10:

No change since the last post, Alabama, Clemson Washington and Michigan.