Alabama turned a week of backlash over its No. 5 CFP ranking into a statement win, beating LSU 31-13 in Baton Rouge and tightening the pressure on the Tigers' playoff path.
Keelon Russell drove the breakthrough with three touchdowns and more than 200 passing yards, while Alabama scored 21 unanswered points to seize control in the second half.
Alabama's defense finished the job by holding LSU to one touchdown in four red-zone trips, repeatedly stalling drives that had moved the ball but failed to produce points.
LSU, which reportedly spent more than $40 million on its roster, now has three losses entering a home matchup with Texas, leaving its CFP hopes hanging by a thread.
For Alabama, the road win over a ranked SEC rival strengthens the committee's early faith in the Tide and reshapes the playoff picture heading toward selection Sunday.