3 Biggest X-Factors For Alabama to Take Down LSU

The Alabama Crimson Tide will be taking on the LSU Tigers this weekend, giving each side a massive chance to make a statement.

Both Alabama and LSU are coming off bye weeks, giving each side extra rest and time to prepare for the game. Each team is also 6-2 on the year, and the winner of this game will be given an edge up in the SEC standings and for the College Football Playoff race.

Alabama came in ranked at No. 5 in the first edition of the playoff rankings, while LSU was at No. 14. This game will have major ramifications on the conference as a whole, while also dictating a large part of the rankings.

With the game being played at Tiger Stadium, Alabama has a tough challenge to overcome, with the crowd being as hostile as any place in college football. But this team has been tested this year, and they will use this to help them try to get the victory.

Here are the three biggest X-Factors for the Crimson Tide to grab the win over LSU this week:

1. Keelon Russell Steps Up

Entering the season, there were questions around Russell, and whether he should be the starter for the team. But the signal-caller has silenced all the outside noise, putting together a good year for the Crimson Tide.

However, this game against LSU is going to test him, with the Tigers defense being very good. Additionally, playing in Tiger Stadium is tough, and Russell is going to have to prove himself again in this game.

2. Quiet the LSU Crowd

With this being a rivalry game, the Crimson Tide have to avoid overthinking, especially early on. If the Tigers' crowd gets involved in the game, it could be a long day for Alabama.

But if the Crimson Tide are able to start strong, quieting the crowd, it could be a successful road trip. Alabama has some work to do in this game, but these are the matchups that programs like this live for.

3. Force Sam Leavitt to Throw the Ball

Leavitt has seen a strange year for the Tigers, with the veteran quarterback struggling earlier in the year, But since, he has started to play much better for LSU, with head coach Lane Kiffin working with him more.

In this game, the Crimson Tide are going to need to force Leavitt to throw the ball more, which he isn't as strong at. Leavitt can be a real threat on the ground, but through the air, he is much more prone to making mistakes, which Alabama can exploit.