Alabama vs. LSU Prediction: Picks, betting odds, analysis, more

The 4-4 LSU Tigers will travel to Tuscaloosa to face off against the 7-1 and 2nd ranked Alabama Crimson Tide on Saturday. For the first time since 2006, the LSU/Bama rivalry game will be broadcast on ESPN, with kickoff slated for 6 pm central time. With the recent news of Tigers head coach Ed Orgeron’s season end departure, this game has a ton of intriguing storylines to follow.

For the Tigers offense, quarterback Max Johnson will be the key to success. The Sophomore has put up decent numbers this season at the helm under center, but without the winning capabilities to show for it. LSU is without Kayshon Boutte at wide receiver, and it will be up to Malik Nabers and Deion Smith to handle the majority of the pass catching. Throughout much of 2021, the Tigers have been unable to consistently run the ball out of the backfield. The Alabama defense might not be the typical Bama elite defense, but LSU could have a tough time moving the ball on Saturday. 

Switching over to the Crimson Tide, Alabama’s offense has been rolling all season. The Tide are led by Bryce Young at quarterback, who is a clear cut Heisman Trophy candidate. Running backs Brian Robinson and Jace McClellan are two powerful tailbacks that compliment Young’s playmaking abilities in the pocket. If Alabama moves the ball down the field, the offense could put up a lot of points in this game against a broken and battered LSU defense.

Speaking of the Tigers defense, the unit has had issues all year. Between injuries and busted coverages, LSU hasn’t found much success on defense under first year coordinator Daronte Jones. Going into Saturday’s game, LSU will have to blitz as often as possible to force pressure on Young. Winning the battles against receivers in pass coverage could give the defense a boost. However, with so many star players out, it is difficult to see LSU having success on defense against the Alabama offense. 

As for the Crimson Tide defense, Pete Golding’s unit must keep the Tigers from elevating the passing game and hold LSU to less than five yards per carry on the ground. The aforementioned Tigers ground attack has struggled, but Tyrion Davis-Price can get going during any game. For Alabama to put up a better defensive showing, forcing turnovers and holding LSU to three-and-outs will be the key factors.

Alabama vs. LSU Prediction

Nick Cole and Christopher Smith share their Alabama vs. LSU prediction and betting picks for Week 10 of the 2021 college football season.