Next Passing game: I don’t see this game really being won or lost in this department given who the running backs are, but some short passes might be interesting here. I’d give the Crimson Tide a slight edge because of their stronger pass defence, and the experience of Jacob Coker from big games he has already played in this season will help. Advantage: Alabama

Previous Next Running game: This is the matchup that will determine this game, I am licking my chops just thinking about these two running backs. LSU running back Leonard Fournette is probably the best running back in the country, but Alabama back Derrick Henry isn’t far behind. Fournette averages 7.6 yards a carry, while Henry is close to 6 yards a carry. Of running backs in the five major conferences, Fournette and Henry are number one and number two in rushing touchdowns. Both are in the top ten for power five running backs in yards per game, with the two backs averaging north of 130 yards a game. I think Fournette is a slightly better back, but Henry is almost as good. Needless to say, this game will be won and lost in the trenches. Advantage: LSU

Previous Next Wide receivers: As I’ve established already, the wide receivers should see more action blocking on outside runs than on catching passes, but both of these teams do have a home run threat. LSU have Malachi Dupre, and Alabama have Calvin Ridley. These are players that could be used in the play action game or on screen plays, and I think the two areas are pretty even. Receivers: Tie

Previous Next Defensive line: It might not matter what the defensive lines of these two teams do with running backs and blockers of the caliber that these two teams have, but making good, open field tackles will critical. Alabama have already faced star Georgia running back Nick Chubb and shut him down, and held Texas A&M to just 32 rushing yards. The LSU defensive front have not faced any backs to the level of Derrick Henry, so I give the Tide the edge. Advantage: Alabama

Previous Next Special teams: This is probably the only clear-cut advantage that either team has, and it is in favor of LSU. Tigers kicker Trent Domingue is a perfect 9/9 this season on field goals and up for the Lou Groza award, which is given to the best kicker in college football. Alabama kicker Adam Griffith is just 10/16 this season and has already missed some chip shots. Both teams have decent kick and punt returners who will cancel each other out. Advantage (massively): LSU

Previous Next Coaching: Two of the best coaches in college football will feature as part of the chess match of this epic showdown. Nick Saban is on the Alabama side, and Les Miles will make the decisions for LSU. Les Miles is known to pull some tricky stuff, while Nick Saban tends to keep things more safe and not take as many risks. They are very different, but both have very talented personal at their disposal. Advantage: We shall find out Saturday night