LSU Drops One Spot In ESPN's Updated College Football Power Rankings

By Staff Reporter•Nov 3, 20264:08 pm•

USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect

LSU dropped one spot to No. 13 in ESPN's updated College Football Power Rankings heading into Week 10.

The Tigers (6-2) were previously ranked No. 12 following their 38-17 road victory over Auburn but slipped one spot during their bye week.

ESPN's Mark Schlabach highlighted LSU's upcoming matchup against Alabama as a major opportunity for first-year head coach Lane Kiffin, who will look to snap the Crimson Tide's three-game winning streak in the rivalry.

LSU will host Alabama this Saturday before facing Texas and Tennessee in a challenging three-game stretch that could determine the Tigers' College Football Playoff hopes.

Kickoff between LSU and Alabama from Tiger Stadium is set for 2:30 p.m. CT on ABC.

Here's what Schlabach had to say about LSU:

quote:
13. LSU Tigers
Previous ranking: 12

This week is one of the reasons the Tigers spent so much money to fire former coach Brian Kelly and hire Lane Kiffin from Ole Miss. LSU had an extra week to prepare for Saturday's home game against Alabama, which has defeated the Tigers three straight times and has won 13 of the past 15 meetings. Last season, Alabama's defense kept LSU out of the end zone for the first time since 2012, giving up only 232 yards of offense and 13 first downs. The Tigers have played better since their 35-34 loss in overtime at Kentucky on Oct. 10. Quarterback Sam Leavitt isn't turning the ball over, and he'll have continue that trend against the Tide. With a three-game stretch against Alabama, Texas and Tennessee, Kiffin can prove he was worth the hefty investment. -- Mark Schlabach