Ok, only hours from kickoff, time for my breakdown.
Quarterback - Todd Boeckman vs Matt Flynn. Both first year starters. Boeckman has been more consistent over the course of the season. He did have an awful game in the loss to Illinois. Don't be surprised if LSU gives the Buckeyes a dose of Ryan Perrilloux early and often. He's more Juice Williams-ish. But in the end, consistency is the key.
Edge: Ohio State
Running back - Chris Wells vs. Jacob Hester. Two very different style runners. Hester has the tag of being a bruising, up-the-middle runner, but can surprise with his speed. Beanie is a great all-around back.
Edge: Tie
Wide receiver - Robiskie and Hartline are go-to guys, but LSU has next level talent at that position. If Doucet is healthy, there could be fireworks.
Edge: LSU
Offensive Line - Flynn has been sacked 25 times this season while Boeckman has hit the ground only 13 times. LSU is averaging slightly higher yards per rush, but protecting the QB is key.
Edge: Ohio State
Defensive Line - Glenn Dorsey will be the most talented athlete on the field tonight.
Edge: LSU
Linebackers - Anyone whos father was a Road Warrior gets my vote. In all seriousness, Laurinaitis leads one of the best linebacking corps in the nation behind USC.
Edge: Ohio State
Secondary - There are athletes on both sides of the ball, but Ohio State has held opponents to only 4.7 yards a passing attempt this year. LSU has yielded 5.5.
Edge: Ohio State
Special teams - Note to Tressel: don't kick the ball to Trindon Holliday. Many people talk about next-level speed, but he has Olympic speed.
Edge: LSU
Intangibles - One word: Nawlins
Edge: LSU
So there you have it. LSU has Ohio State in 4.5 categories and Ohio State has LSU in 4.5 categories. Therefore, it will be a tie. Ok, I guess that can't happen, but watch for a close game for all four quarters with LSU adding a late touchdown to seal it.
My prediction: LSU 27, Ohio State 17.