Alabama Crimson Tide vs. LSU and what computer models are missing

Jonathan Bachman/GettyImagesSome college football fans doubt the value of analytics in predicting game outcomes. Almost universally, there is a perspective that the BCS Era rankings were too dependent on computer models. This week, top computer models have an average prediction that the Alabama Crimson Tide will beat LSU by 12 points.

My take is the game is above-average, difficult to predict. The main reason is LSU's coaching change. Reading through LSU message boards, there is a sense that LSU players respect and like Frank Wilson. While Brian Kelly might have had a similar level of respect, many players were tired of his frequent tirades. LSU fans now see what many outsiders saw when…