Key questions heading into No. 4 Alabama’s game vs. LSU

Nov 9, 2024; Baton Rouge, Louisiana, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide running back Jam Miller (26) rushes against LSU Tigers cornerback Ashton Stamps (1) and safety Sage Ryan (3) during the second half at Tiger Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Stephen Lew-Imagn Images

Tim Keenan III put it best when addressing Alabama’s physical state coming out of its second open date on the schedule.

“In the middle of football season,” the defensive lineman said with a laugh, “if something ain’t hurt, then you probably ain’t playing.” 

That being said, Keenan and No. 4 Alabama enter the month recharged and ready to take on the final stretch of the regular season. That begins this week when the Crimson Tide welcomes LSU to Bryant-Denny Stadium for a 6:30 p.m. CT kickoff on Saturday. 

Alabama (7-1, 5-0) and LSU (5-3, 2-3) are heading in opposite directions at the moment. The Tide is riding a seven-game winning streak and survived a four-game stretch against ranked opponents last month. The Tigers have lost three of their last four games, leading to the firing of head coach Brian Kelly last week. Running backs coach Frank Wilson was promoted as LSU’s interim head coach for the remainder of the season. 

Alabama is currently a 10.5-point favorite heading into the matchup. The Tide holds a 57-27-5 all-time advantage in the series, including a 42-13 win at LSU last season. 

Here are five questions to watch for heading into Saturday’s game.