The world didn't end but it seemed like the LSU Tigers' world, or at the very least their perfect season, was crashing down around them.
It wasn't an offensive battle, but the lack of success for the Tigers offense made the Alabama unit look more impressive. The Alabama defense though (to no real surprise) stole the show. They held LSU to less than 100 yards for the entire game. This was the first BCS bowl to post a shutout, and the Tide did it in convincing fashion.
Early in the second quarter with a 3-0 lead, the Crimson Tide kicker Jeremy Shelley had a 42-yard field goal attempt blocked. That momentarily seemed like it could prove to be a momentum shift. However, the Tigers were unable to get another first down before the half. LSU only had four plays in Alabama territory all night. Shelley was 5/7 on field goals and missed the only extra point attempt he had off the upright. That extra point try came after a Trent Richardson 34 yard rushing touchdown with 4:36 left in the game. As if the game wasn't decided at that point, the touchdown sealed the deal.
Could I have been any further off with my pre-game analysis?
- I said it wouldn't be a field goal battle. Until that last touchdown inside of five minutes to go, I was eating my words.
- I said Richardson would have more of an impact. He had 89 yards in the first game and 96 this time around. I don't think 7 yards counts as having a tremendously larger impact, though he did play a big role in getting some key blocks, so there may still be some redemption for me.
- "Look for Mathieu to shine." Ha. I was completely wrong about that one. He didn't even seem to be in the game toward the end. I've heard of the Heisman hangover for a winner, but not just a finalist.
- Finally, I had LSU winning. Hard to do when you don't score.
So, college football season is officially over. Another one is in the books. And what a season it was.
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