Amari Cooper, Marcell Dareus, Leonard Fournette and Patrick Peterson are recent top-five NFL draft selections who competed each November in the Alabama-LSU game.
This Southeastern Conference matchup consistently provides as much or more professional talent than any other college football showdown, and the baptisms, whether in Tuscaloosa or Baton Rouge, often occur for players as freshmen. It will be no different Saturday night, when the No. 1 Crimson Tide (8-0, 5-0) visit the No. 3 Tigers (7-1, 4-1).
It’s a grander stage than any Alabama or LSU freshman has experienced to this point, but it’s also the ninth game of the season for both teams.
“I don’t view them as freshmen at this point,” LSU coach Ed Orgeron said. “They’re ready to go, and we wouldn’t put guys in if they weren’t ready. Obviously it’s not the first big game for either side.
“In fact, I like freshmen playing, because it brings a new attitude to your team.”