1. WHAT WE LEARNED

The LSU Tigers, the ones still able to play, gave their all Saturday in a season where effort has often come into question. The game wound up as a predictable Alabama victory but in totally unpredictable fashion, as the Tigers pushed the Crimson Tide to the very last play in a dramatic 20-14 defeat. LSU’s next coach will review Saturday’s film and find returning players he will believe he can build a team around.

2. TRENDING NOW

LSU’s defense. Missing nine players who started games this season, the Tigers limited Alabama to 308 yards, including just 6 net yards rushing. Called predictable by coach Ed Orgeron this week, the Tigers unveiled a completely new 3-4 front and sold out with zero coverage to harass Bama quarterback Bryce Young all night. Other than the five minutes of game time in which the Tide scored its 20 points, LSU’s defense often had the upper hand.

3. FINAL THOUGHTS

It’s easy to ask where Saturday’s effort was at times during this LSU season. Or to second-guess Orgeron for not kicking a field goal on fourth-and-goal with just under seven minutes left, leaving the Tigers without a chance to kick for overtime late. But circumstances left LSU the freedom to discard caution and play to win, putting a first-class fright into Alabama. It will be worth something if the Tigers can replicate this effort going forward.