The LSU-Alabama matchup has become a huge rivalry within the SEC West. The last five games have now been claimed by the Crimson Tide and has been a great platform to showcase the Tide's talent. Tonight, Alabama's defense should receive huge credit in being able to shut down LSU running back Leonard Fournette. 

Fournette was held to only nine yards in the first half. This was an incredible feat for the Alabama defense. They were able to keep the run contained for almost the whole night. The one breakaway that Fournette managed to get was in the fourth quarter when he ran for 18 yards to the Alabama four yard line. He would go ahead and cap off that series with a touchdown. Besides that it was an extremely quiet night for Fournette. 

On the opposite side, running back Derrick Henry had one of the best games of his career. He totaled 210 yards with three touchdowns. The one flaw for Henry was a fumble in the fourth quarter. The LSU defense had a hard time keeping Henry at bay. He got multiple breakaway plays resulting in first downs, the longest going for 40 yards in the second quarter. 

Kenyan Drake had an outstanding game as well. Drake had a few good returns on kickoff, including a 33-yard return in the second quarter. He was also able to make some big plays to extend drives for the Alabama offense. The balance between his quickness and Henry's toughness was able to keep LSU's defense off-balanced just enough to extend a play that looked like it might not get any yardage.

LSU's quarterback, Brandon Harris, actually had a decent night but it was obvious the offense was lacking without the explosive running from Fournette to help out. Harris threw 6-for-19 with 128 yards, an interception, and a touchdown. He was able to make some crucial plays to get LSU out of some tough jams, including the 37-yard completion to Travin Dural after two delay of games that pushed LSU back to their own two yard line. Tonight was also the first time he threw an interception this season.

One major improvement that stands out for Alabama is kicker Adam Griffith. Griffith has had a rough season, starting 0-4 in field goal attempts. Tonight he made all three of his attempts including a 55-yarder. That should give him a major confidence boost for upcoming games. He is now 13/19 in field goal attempts on the season. 

Alabama quarterback, Jake Coker, ended the game 18-for-24 with 184 yards and no interceptions. He was able to get receivers Calvin Ridley and ArDarius Stewart involved, opening up the run game even more. 

What's Next:

LSU will be playing Arkansas next Saturday at Tiger Stadium. Arkansas is coming off of a huge overtime win against Ole Miss. The game does not have a set time at this time. 

Alabama will be traveling to Davis Wade Stadium as they take on Mississippi State. The Bulldogs are 7-2 with losses against LSU and Texas A&M. The Tide will need to be careful against Dak Prescott who averages about 261 passing yards per game. There isn't a time for this game as of right now.