Two sports reporters for the New Orleans Advocate are calling it the game of the century, but this writer thinks not so since Alabama has won the past 8 games. True, both teams are undefeated and regardless who wins both teams could still have a chance to make the playoffs if things fall in their favor. One sports writer said it could be a repeat of the 2011game with a rematch of both teams playing for the national championship. Hopefully that will never take place again because rematches are for losers and should never be allowed.
LSU fans, including this writer should be confident because for the first time LSU has an offense capable of moving the football and scoring points. That was lacking under coach Miles and even lacking under Coach O for his first three seasons at LSU. And of course LSU took a step backward last year when Alabama shut out LSU in Tiger stadium. Coach O to his credit did something about improving the LSU offense this season and has taken the offense to a new LSU level.
The game on November 9 should be looked at objectively. The road to the playoffs and a chance to play for the national championship leads thru Alabama. So does a division and SEC title. The game will not define the future of either team. Alabama is already a consistent winning team in championships while LSU is not. Past talk about LSU losing to Alabama because they have better players is a cop-out and should be laid to rest.
Alabama's defense presents the greatest challenge to LSU's offense so far this year and how LSU responds to that challenge will be interesting to watch. Alabama also has a strong offense and the LSU defense will have to bring their best effort. Coaching decisions have a tendency to play a large role in games such as this one.
This writer will not allow himself to get excited until LSU beats Alabama. LSU is a confident team with a new offense that is working and Saban has the best defensive mind in college football, so something has to give. We know from past game history the game could be either low or high scoring and that Alabama has made some big plays against LSU's defense. Speculation will run rampant between now and game time but none of it matters. Can LSU pull off a defensive performance like they did in 2011 when they allowed Alabama only two field goals?
The question, "can LSU finally beat Alabama" will remain the same until November 9. And shame on those folks who believe the current story that LSU and Alabama are not thinking about the game during their off week.
This commentary written by Joe Lorio
