SEC Power Rankings: LSU – Alabama set up for another instant classic

Oct 24, 2015; Tuscaloosa, AL, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide running back Derrick Henry (2) carries for a touchdown against Tennessee Volunteers defensive back Malik Foreman (13) during the first quarter at Bryant-Denny Stadium. Mandatory Credit: John David Mercer-USA TODAY Sports

The Alabama Crimson Tide slipped earlier this season against Ole Miss, and dug a hole for themselves in the SEC West with a 43-37 loss thanks to five turnovers. Since, the Tide has been unbeatable and ran off five consecutive victories before finally taking a week off to prepare for a huge clash with LSU in Tuscaloosa.

Alabama’s offense wasn’t at its best two weeks ago in a 19-14 win over Tennessee, but the Crimson Tide continued to flex its defensive muscles. The Vols gained only 303 total yards of offense, which raised Alabama’s impressive average slightly to 275.8 total yards per contest.

Tennessee had 134 rushing yards, which pushed the Crimson Tide’s average against the run to 78.5, which ranked fourth in the nation at the beginning of Week 9. That strong defense will be put to the test next week as Leonard Fournette and the LSU Tigers come to town.

The Crimson Tide offense will also have its hands full. LSU has held opponents to 315.9 total yards of offense, which ranks No. 14 in the country. The Tigers are also stocked with talent at every level, and match up well with Alabama’s offense.

With a combination of size, strength and speed similar to Fournette, Alabama running back Derrick Henry has gained 1,044 rushing yards and 14 touchdowns this season, which includes at least one score in every game this year. The Tide would be wise to rely heavily on Henry next week.

An Alabama victory would officially make the SEC West a three-team race between the Tide, LSU and Ole Miss, and it would ensure Alabama the No. 1 spot in next week’s SEC Power Rankings.

Next Game: Saturday November 7 vs. LSU

Next: LSU