Alabama Given Shocking Prediction Ahead of LSU Showdown

The Alabama Crimson Tide will be heading out on the road to take on the LSU Tigers this weekend, in what could be the biggest game on the schedule.

Both Alabama and LSU come into the game with a record of 6-2, giving each team a chance to make a real statement. Each team is coming off a bye week, giving them more rest and time to prepare for this huge game.

With SEC schedule changes coming, this matchup will be the last one played between the two teams on a yearly basis. This could add more emphasis for both sides to want to come away with the win.

With this rivalry game kicking off in a few days, the Crimson Tide aren't being favored to come away with the win on the road. According to the ESPN matchup predictor, Alabama only has a 43 percent chance of taking down LSU this week.

Since the game is being played on the road, LSU is likely being favored, especially since Tiger Stadium can be so tough to play in.

One of the bigger keys to the game for the Crimson Tide will be how quarterback Keelon Russell can perform. Alabama has all the confidence in the world in Russell, but he has been a little shaky at times this season.

For the year, the signal-caller has thrown for 2,057 yards with 15 touchdowns and five interceptions through the air. On the ground, Russell has made his presence known for this team, rushing for

Russell has proven to be very impactful for Alabama, even with his limited experience as a starting quarterback. If Russell can handle the hostile atmosphere that LSU will throw at him, the Crimson Tide could have a strong chance to win the game.

Alabama is going to need Russell to play more like he did against Kentucky earlier in the season, rather than how he looked against Tennessee a few weeks ago. The signal-caller have a lot of talent, but he can sometimes make poor decisions with the football.

LSU has a very strong defense, and this will be a major challenge for Russell to overcome this week. But if Alabama is going to reach the heights that this program wants to get to this season, Russell is going to have to be able to handle these types of games.

Kickoff for the final yearly meeting between the two rivals is set for 12:30 p.m. PT/3:30 p.m. ET from Baton Rouge.