LSU's CFP outlook just took a massive blow. Can Tigers still make it after Alabama loss?

Since the College Football Playoff rankings were released on Tuesday, discussions have largely focused on the showdown between Miami and Notre Dame in South Bend. However, another Week 10 game had significant implications for the CFP: the clash between Alabama and LSU at Tiger Stadium. While the Hurricanes-Fighting Irish matchup garnered the most attention, the Alabama-Tigers contest could have major ramifications for the Tigers' playoff prospects.

The Crimson Tide, fresh off a two-week bye, came out on top in their Week 10 matchup against LSU, a three-loss team and No. 14 in the initial rankings. Alabama's dominant 31-13 victory at Tiger Stadium featured late-game heroics by Keelon Russell, who threw two touchdown passes, and Kane Wommack's stifling defense, which neutralized LSU's offense. The Tigers failed to convert on four fourth-down attempts, ultimately sealing their loss.

With Alabama now a two-loss team, LSU's path to the College Football Playoff has become considerably more challenging. At No. 14 in the committee's initial rankings, the Tigers are one spot behind Tennessee, which is projected as the second team out of the field. However, LSU still has two games to influence the playoff picture: a home game against Texas and a trip to play Tennessee.

A victory against both the Longhorns and Volunteers could bolster LSU's CFP prospects and improve their odds of securing a spot in the postseason. Nevertheless, unlike Alabama, which won the SEC championship game over Georgia last season, LSU currently faces an uphill battle, as the Tigers are eliminated from contention for the SEC title game. Ultimately, the selection committee will have to weigh LSU's recent performance against historical precedent when determining the Tigers' fate in the CFP selection process.