GAME BREAKDOWN
KEY MATCHUP: LSU’s pass defense against Alabama’s passing game. Alabama QB Tua Tagovailoa has thrown 25 touchdowns and zero interceptions. LSU’s defense, meanwhile, leads the nation in interceptions with 14. The Tide lead the country in yards per pass play and likely would rank higher than their No. 5 position in passing yards per game if they hadn’t gotten so many big early leads and been able to curtail the passing game. If Tagovailoa is able to have the type of the success that he has been having, it’s going to be extremely difficult for LSU to win. But if the Tigers can contain the Alabama running game, put Tagovailoa in obvious passing situations and pressure him, they might be able to slow down the passing game and even get that elusive first interception, which would greatly enhance LSU’s chances of winning.
DRAFT SLANT
–OL Garrett Brumfield was projected as a possible first-round draft choice before missing five games because of a leg injury. The injury itself isn’t likely to change his draft status, but his stock could drop if he doesn’t return to his previous level of play during the remainder of the season. A strong showing against the Alabama defensive front certainly would enhance is standing.
ROSTER REPORT
–LB Devin White must sit out the first half against Alabama because of a targeting penalty he incurred in LSU’s last game two weeks ago against Mississippi State.
–G Garrett Brumfield (knee) is probable to return after a five-game absence.
–G Ed Ingram, who would have started on the right side, is suspended indefinitely.
–LB Tyler Taylor, a backup, is suspended indefinitely.
–LB K’Lavon Chaisson (knee) is out for the season.
–TE Jamal Pettigrew, who would have been a backup, is out for the season because of a knee injury.
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