re: How does Bama stack up?

Despite Bama fans who swear LSU is no rival to the Tide, you can believe LSU is always a must-win for Nick Saban and the Tide nation. So be sure this game will not be taken lightly in Tuscaloosa and that gallons of midnight oil have already been burned analyzing every tendency and quirk of this (and previous years') team and coaches.

Which is to say, Bama will be ready. And this is another crusade game for them and for us, not unlike our Ole Miss encounter. Only probably even more intense - if that is possible.

To win, stats, record, and ratings are secondary. LSU needs our stadium overflowing with crazed Tiger fans. We need our coaches focused, and with a game plan that is as varied and flexible as it is unpredictable (Nick loves predictability - it's his bread and butter). Our coach must counter his tendency to go to the same well too often.

Besides this, we need our team ready to play hard for the entire game. And we need to get in the head of Nick Saban and a couple of their key skill players, like we did with Bo Wallace.

But if both teams are playing their best, it could ultimately come down to special teams. God help us if it comes down to referees.