Saban Names LSU a National Title Sleeper

Former LSU coach Nick Saban put the Tigers forward as a surprise national championship possibility during College GameDay on October 31. He pointed to the team’s offense, which has averaged more than 40 points per game, and a defense allowing 16 points per game. LSU has won six games by at least 20 points, Saban noted, while adding that improved play from the skill-position group and fewer turnovers from quarterback Sam Leavitt could help the team make a title run.

LSU is 6-2 overall and 3-2 in Southeastern Conference play, and sits 15th in the latest AP poll. Lane Kiffin’s first season as head coach has included a 51-10 win over Clemson, a 35-6 victory against Texas A&M and recent blowout wins over Mississippi State and Auburn. The Tigers also lost to Ole Miss and Kentucky on the road.

Turnovers remain a concern. Leavitt has thrown eight interceptions, more than any other SEC player, with one coming in every LSU defeat. In the Tigers’ past two games, however, he has thrown seven touchdown passes without an interception. His latest performance included 388 passing yards and three touchdowns against Auburn.

LSU’s remaining schedule includes home games against Alabama on November 7 and Texas on November 14, followed by road games at Tennessee and Arkansas. Strong results against ranked opponents could improve the Tigers’ case for one of the 12 College Football Playoff places. The first playoff rankings are due in the coming days, and LSU could also contend for the SEC championship game.