Auburn (5-2) at LSU (6-1) - 7:45 pm EST ESPN
Why to watch: Well alright. Now this is looking like the SEC West showdown we've all been waiting for. Things were a bit sketchy for a while as Auburn gacked in its first two games and LSU looked lousy against Florida, but the Tigers (the Auburn version) turned things around with a five-game winning streak and the Tigers (the Bayou edition) looked fantastic in a blowout win over South Carolina. While Ole Miss and Arkansas are still in the mix (and then some), the winner of this game should be the favorite to represent the West in the SEC title game.
Why Auburn might win: The Auburn run defense continues to rock only allowing 93 yards per game. LSU's running game might not be up to snuff with leading rusher Joseph Addai most likely out with a knee injury and backup Shyrone Carey still hurting. Quarterback Matt Mauck was able to shine against South Carolina with one of the best games of his career, and he might have to come through again.
Why LSU might win: Two words: Jason Campbell. With all they hype and publicity that Carnell Williams has received on his amazing three-game tear, LSU's number one run defense is going to be extra fired up to try and put the Cadillac into the garage. If the Auburn ground game isn't rolling, can Campbell make LSU pay with his arm? He hasn't thrown a touchdown pass in two games and hasn't been pressed to make too many big plays.
Who to watch: In what should be a defensive battle, it could be up to the Baby Bayou Backs to step up again. Freshmen Alley Broussard, Justin Vincent and Barrington Edwards combined for 222 yards and two touchdowns against South Carolina. With starting left guard Nate Livings out, the line will have to be extra sharp and the young backs extra good against the Auburn D.
What will happen: The Fourth Annual Can't Miss Pick: The Tigers will win. LSU has looked like national title contenders in every game other than the Florida debacle and should find just enough momentum at home to pull off the defensive battle. Could this be Earthquake Game II with a last second score? Maybe.
Auburn 24 LSU 17