BCS Title Game Prediction: Ohio State vs. LSU

LSU vs. Ohio State predictions

When LSU has the Ball:

The Tigers like to switch between power run formations and the spread, and they'll need to mix it up against a tough OSU defense that's only allowed 10.7 points per game, tops in the nation.

Matt Flynn and Ryan Perriloux will both play some at QB, with the former being a better passer and the latter a better runner.

LSU's balance should allow them to score some points, but the key for Ohio State is to bring more blitzes than they did a year ago against Florida so they can dictate the tempo and make the QB's uncomfortable for when crunch time comes.

LSU has a lot of speed on the outside with Early Doucet and Brandon LaFell, but Ohio State needs to challenge them with man coverage and blitz and concede a few big plays or they'll get picked apart in their zone like last year.

When Ohio State has the Ball:

The Buckeyes made a big mistake last year on offense when they abandoned their powerful running game to spread Florida out and try to throw all day like they did against Michigan.

This year, they'll probably try and run bruising sophomore star RB Chris Wells early and often against LSU and then try to go deep off play-action.

QB Todd Boeckman is the key to this game for OSU. He puts a few too many ill-advised deep balls up for grabs and that could cost OSU big time against LSU's ball-hawking secondary. Expect to see backup running QB Antonio Henton for a few plays in this game to keep LSU off-balance.

LSU's Glenn Dorsey is finally healthy on the defensive line and he could be big trouble for the interior of OSU's offensive line if he plays they way he's capable of playing.

Prediction: 24-20 LSU

Ohio State will have a much better showing than last year but it won't quite be enough because LSU has more play-makers on offense than the Buckeyes and their QB's are more versatile than Boeckman as well as less mistake-prone. Playing in New Orleans might be the biggest difference for the Tigers, though.

The Buckeyes exceeded expectations this year, however, and could be back next year with a better team.