LSU vs. Alabama Preview and Prediction

Oct 10, 2015; Baton Rouge, LA, USA; LSU Tigers running back Leonard Fournette (7) runs for a 87 yard touchdown against the South Carolina Gamecocks during the third quarter of a game at Tiger Stadium. LSU defeated South Carolina 45-24. Mandatory Credit: Derick E. Hingle-USA TODAY Sports

LSU Tigers

LSU has, for the most part, exceeded expectations for the 2015 season. Since squeaking out a two-point victory over Mississippi State in Week 2, the Tigers have looked impressive on the way to their perfect 7-0 start. Their biggest win came a few weeks ago against the Florida Gators, who would otherwise be unbeaten.

Still, Vegas favors Alabama at home this weekend — by nearly a touchdown, no less! Have the oddsmakers in Sin City forgotten about one of the most dominant running backs in the history of the SEC?

To date, running back Leonard Fournette has rushed for 1,352 yards and 15 scores on 176 carries. That’s an average of 7.6 yards per carry, folks. Oh, and he’s only a sophomore.

Against a porous defensive unit or a prolific one, it doesn’t matter — Fournette has punished opposing defenses all season long. And this Saturday should be no different, despite the Crimson Tide’s talent and depth on that side of the ball.

The real question is, how will quarterback Brandon Harris fare against arguably one of the best defenses in the country? If Harris can deliver accurate throws consistently against a stout secondary, it could be a long night for Alabama.  Alabama would then have to give the aerial attack just as much attention as the ground game.  Against a team with Leonard Fournette?  That simply would not spell s-u-c-c-e-s-s.

Defensively, the Tigers will also have a top running back to contend with in Alabama’s Derrick Henry. Overall LSU ranks sixth in rushing defense, giving up just 93.7 yards per game.

If the Tigers can stymie Henry and force Bama QB Jake Coker to win the game with his arm, LSU likely escapes Tuscaloosa unscathed.

Next: Alabama Preview