Main Story

No. 9 Alabama visits No. 15 LSU on Saturday in Baton Rouge, with both teams at 6-2 and coming off a bye. The matchup turns on whether Alabama can protect quarterback Keelon Russell against LSU’s pass rush—and whether the Crimson Tide can disrupt quarterback Sam Leavitt and a Tigers offense that’s been scoring consistently. Kickoff is at 3:30 p.m. ET on ABC, with streaming available through ESPN Unlimited.

By the Numbers
  • Both teams are 6-2; Alabama is 4-2 in SEC play, while LSU is 3-2.
  • LSU has 34 sacks; Alabama’s Russell has been sacked 22 times.
  • Alabama has 12 interceptions, including 5 returned for touchdowns; Leavitt has thrown 8 interceptions this season.
  • LSU averages 510 yards per game and has scored at least 31 points in 5 straight games.
Yes, But

LSU’s defense gives up just 172.8 passing yards per game, but Alabama has shown it can produce through the air when Russell has time. Meanwhile, Leavitt has avoided interceptions in his last 2 games, even as Alabama has created 12 picks this season.

State of Play
  • Alabama is seeking momentum after losses to Georgia and Tennessee, followed by a 31-20 win over Texas A&M.
  • LSU has won 2 straight and is 5-0 at home, most recently beating Auburn 38-17.
  • Key matchups include Alabama’s pass protection against LSU’s rush and the Crimson Tide’s coverage of LSU receiver Jackson Harris.
What's Next

Early third-and-long plays should show whether Alabama can keep Russell upright. LSU’s first downfield throws will also test whether Leavitt can continue protecting the ball against a defense that has turned interceptions into touchdowns.

Bottom Line

Alabama’s turnover threat gives it a path to slow LSU, but the Tigers’ home-field edge and pass rush put the pressure on the Crimson Tide to protect Russell and make their passing chances count.