The Big Game -- Afterthoughts

Wow.  What a ballgame!  On the real, its just not too often these days where there's a hype-filled defensive matchup that lives up to the billing.  But this game between LSU and Alabama did exactly that.  I'm happy that this clash of the Titans was every bit as good as advertised.

I do feel that the better team Won, but I'm also surprised that Saban's Tide Wasted so many opportunities.  Yes, the kicking game proved to be the difference.  And that's exactly where the Bengal Tigers' key advantage manifested itself.

Yes, I am that impressed with LSU's kicking game.  Between the way they control field position AND play defense, there simply isn't a team in college football good enough (and talented enough) to beat these guys.

Consider what I personally felt was the difference in the game.  LSU was backed up, ready to punt the ball inside their own 20.  I think the Crimson Tide punt returner was standing at about his own 35, poised to run towards the impending punt to field it.  From the scenario, Alabama had every expectation of receiving the football, and with little or no return, beginning their possession right around midfield.  A huge opportunity, given the low-scoring tone of the game.  What happened?  The Tigers' punter ended up punting the ball (with a fortuitous roll) to almost the Alabama 20 yard line!  I felt the punter deserved serious consideration for Player of the Game for that effort; LSU doesn't Win without that play.

There were easily a half-dozen key special teams plays through the game that the Tigers consistently 'Won'.  Again, there's the hidden element of a sound kicking game paying crucial dividends on the road.  Simple and plain, if the Crimson Tide had executed on special teams during the game, they're the #1 team in college football tonight.  But LSU did, and that is why they still are #1.

Tonight, we saw exactly why LSU will Win the National Championship.  They can beat you a number of ways, but they KNOW they can beat anyone by pinning an opponent deep in it's own territory, play tough defense (since driving down a long field and scoring consistently on this defense is very unlikely), and slowly bend teams into submission in grind-em-out style ballgames.  That playing style doesn't make you as popular as the spread offensive scheme teams, but it does make you damn near impossible to beat.

Them Louisiana Boys just proved it.