The SEC showdown between Alabama and LSU on November 9, 2024, in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, became a defining moment in the College Football Playoff race. While LSU entered the game with high hopes and aspirations, it was the Alabama Crimson Tide that delivered a commanding 42-13 victory that not only bolstered their playoff chances but also solidified Jalen Milroe’s status as one of the conference’s most electrifying players.
The focal point of the game was Alabama’s dominant rushing attack, and at the heart of it was quarterback Jalen Milroe. LSU’s defense had struggled to stop the run all season, most notably against Texas A&M, where they allowed three rushing touchdowns to Aggies QB Marcel Reed. That trend continued on Saturday night, as Milroe and the Alabama offense exploited the Tigers’ defense with brutal efficiency.
Milroe was nearly unstoppable, rushing for 185 yards on just 12 carries, finding the end zone four times. His performance was nothing short of spectacular, showcasing his blend of speed, power, and vision as he sliced through LSU’s defense. Milroe’s rushing dominance was a testament to his growth as a quarterback. Although he completed 12 of 18 passes for 109 yards, his arm wasn’t needed for the victory. Alabama’s game plan revolved around pounding the ball, and Milroe’s legs carried the team to victory. His four rushing touchdowns were the difference-maker, and his ability to evade LSU defenders while maintaining his focus on the goal line made him nearly impossible to stop.
The win was a complete team effort from Alabama, but Milroe’s sensational individual performance earned him the SEC Offensive Player of the Week honor, further cementing his place among the conference’s elite. In a game that many had labeled as an elimination matchup for the College Football Playoff, Milroe’s performance stood as a statement to the rest of the college football world that Alabama is a force to be reckoned with.
While Milroe was the clear star of the game, his success also came as a result of excellent coaching and team execution. Alabama’s offensive coordinator Kalen DeBoer crafted a game plan that played to the Crimson Tide’s strengths, sticking with the run even when LSU seemed powerless to stop it. DeBoer’s commitment to the ground game allowed Alabama to dominate time of possession, controlling the tempo of the game and keeping LSU’s offense off the field. Alabama’s offensive line also played a pivotal role, creating gaping holes for Milroe and the running backs. The offensive line’s physicality allowed Alabama to gain over 300 yards on the ground, and it was clear that LSU was outmatched up front.
In contrast, LSU’s offense was unable to find any rhythm. Quarterback Garrett Nussmeier, who had shown flashes of brilliance earlier in the season, struggled throughout the game, throwing two interceptions and fumbling once. LSU’s inability to protect the ball, coupled with their defense’s struggles, sealed their fate. Alabama’s defense didn’t need to be spectacular, but they capitalized on every LSU mistake, forcing turnovers and getting off the field on crucial third downs.
For LSU, the defeat was a crushing blow to their playoff hopes. The Tigers were outmuscled and outplayed in every phase of the game. With time running out in the regular season, LSU now faces an uphill battle to keep their College Football Playoff hopes alive. Alabama, meanwhile, strengthened its position for a possible playoff berth, and with Milroe leading the way, they remain a serious contender for the national title.
