4 Reasons LSU Couldn’t Keep Up With Alabama
By Scotty Nola
3) Lack of Defensive Line Depth
Nov 7, 2015; Tuscaloosa, AL, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide quarterback Jake Coker (14) runs the ball as LSU Tigers defensive end Lewis Neal (92) defends during the second quarter at Bryant-Denny Stadium. Mandatory Credit: John David Mercer-USA TODAY Sports
The Tigers defensive line wasn’t bad against Alabama, especially in the first half. Alabama has had issues on their offensive line and LSU defenders were able to exploit that, getting penetration and racking up sacks as well as they have against any opponent this season.
The problem with the line came late. With the offense bogged down and the line not getting any breaks they grew visibly tired. This is something we have pointed out in the space as early as the the first game this year against Mississippi State.
In that game the Tigers lack of depth showed late as the Bulldogs led a furious comeback attempt aided in large part by the lack of pass rush coming from a worn down LSU defensive front.
Anyone watching the Alabama game could see the same storyline unfolding, with the main change being instead of a comeback the Tide were able to put the game away late when the LSU pass rush fell off.
One good thing here: A lot of recruits were watching the Alabama game closely. Losing a big game usually doesn’t help much with recruiting.
In this case you can be certain Ed Orgeron was calling top recruits and telling them about the need for depth and great opportunity for early playing time waiting for them at LSU.
The Tigers are still in line for several of the top defensive line recruits in the country, and may have a late Christmas present due on National Signing Day.
Next: When the Walls Come Crumbling Down