LSU will host sixth-ranked Alabama Saturday in their third matchup against a top-ten opponent. Coming off a bye week and a win over undefeated Ole Miss, the Tigers look to take control of the SEC West with a win. The 6-2 Tigers have struggled with inconsistencies, but look to be catching their stride under new head coach Brian Kelly. Crimson Tide Head Coach Nick Saban credited the coaching and teaching of Kelly and his staff for the improvement the Tigers have seen.
“The team’s playing with a lot more discipline and they’re really focused on what they have to do. I think they believe in each other, and I think they believe and trust in the coaching staff that they have and that’s why they’ve made the progress that they’ve made.”
Alabama comes to Death Valley as 13 point favorites boasting an explosive offense led by Heisman-winning Quarterback Bryce Young. It will be strength against strength as the Tigers defense looks to contain the Crimson Tide. On the other side of the ball, LSU fans will find a familiar face in cornerback Eli Ricks who transferred from LSU to Alabama this past offseason. Ricks gained a starting spot in the Bama defense after a strong outing in their last game against Mississippi St, and could be a key factor facing LSU’s talented receiving corps. Saban said his mentality heading into the game will be important.
“He played well in the last game, so hopefully he can build on that. But I think it’s important that he goes into this game and be himself and doesn’t think he has to do something fantastic just because he’s playing against a team he used to play for.”
The Crimson Tide are 6-1 under Nick Saban at Death Valley, but he doesn’t underestimate the impact the home crowd can have on the game. The 6:00 PM kickoff with the SEC West on the line is sure to be accompanied by a roaring sold out Tiger Stadium. Coach Saban said it is more important than ever to stay poised when playing in a hostile environment like Death Valley.
“It’s always challenging to play on the road in this league anywhere you play. Obviously this is one of the more challenging places so all the more reason to have great focus and attention to detail.”
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