Nick Saban stresses importance of line of scrimmage against LSU

Games are won at the line of scrimmage. Alabama’s matchup with LSU this weekend will be no different. During an appearance on “Hey Coach & the Nick Saban Show,” head coach Nick Saban addressed how vital Alabama’s linemen will be on Saturday.

“Controlling the line of scrimmage in this game is really, really important,” Saban said. “They have a great perimeter team. They have a great downhill runner. They have a really good offensive line. But, the complement to that is they are actually running triple-option plays.

“It’s no different than an old-fashioned wishbone to go along with the skilled receivers they have and their ability to make plays in the passing game and [Jayden Daniels’] ability to scramble and extend plays and run when you don’t keep the pocket — that’s why they’re the No. 1 offensive team in the country.”

Saban isn’t exaggerating. LSU leads the country in yards (552.9) and points (47.4) per game. Further, in six wins this season, the Tigers have averaged 51 points per victory. Alabama can’t get into a shootout with LSU.

The Crimson Tide have only scored 40 or more points twice this season. For reference, the Tigers have only scored less than 40 points once. To find maximum success, Alabama must maximize its time on the field.

Alabama stares prepares for trench warfare

Of course, this game plan will require a strong running performance from the Crimson Tide. Alabama’s ground game hasn’t been its strength this season. The Tide only average 147.1 rushing yards per outing, ranking 76th nationally.

Alabama’s offensive line isn’t the only group that must own the trenches. The Crimson Tide’s defensive front must be just as solid. If Alabama can stop LSU’s interior attack, it can focus on the Tigers’ tricks outside.

“It’s important that we control the tempo of the game,” Saban said. “You can’t do that unless you control the line of scrimmage. It’s really important that we can be able to stop their inside runs with our interior guys, so that we can play the perimeter plays like we need to without giving them explosive plays.”

This time, the statistics are on Alabama’s side. Saban’s interior defenders give opposing offenses headaches, boasting 29 sacks this season. Moreover, Alabama has 57 tackles for loss this season.

No matter what resumé Alabama’s linemen bring to the table, they’ll have their hands full against LSU. On Saturday, Alabama will square off against the Tigers at 7:45 p.m. ET. The game will be broadcast on CBS.