The countdown is at two days for the OSU vs. LSU matchup down in the Bayou. The anticipation is sure to build, but the hype for this year?s game appears to be at a lull compared to previous seasons. Nobody has even come out and guaranteed a win. The start of the NFL playoffs may have something to do with it, but there just seems to be a lack of flavor with this year?s BCS championship game. This game does not feature the big names of T. Smith, Ginn, Russell, and Addai, whom we are all accustomed to when mentioning the Tigers and Buckeyes. Yes, there are talented skill players on both sides with Doucet, Hester, Wells, and Robiskie. However, this game surely will be related to how well the interiors of both teams play. Who will be the more physical team and dominant on both the offensive and defensive side of the football? The model for building a successful team has been from the inside out. Having strong lines on both sides of the ball will enable playmakers to flow freely and make plays. These two teams have been configured the same way. That is why the names of Dorsey, Pittman, Barton, and Boone ring so loudly. Statistics don?t always tell the story, but they are very close in portraying who has been more effective between the trenches. OSU has been showing dominance on the defensive side of the ball all year. They rank 3rd in the nation in rush defense yielding a microscopic 2.45 yards/carry and 1st in pass defense. Playmakers like Brutus award winner Laurinaitis, Gholston, and Heyward have been swarming opposing offenses. LSU ranks 13th and 10th in those respective categories. In terms of the offensive line, OSU ranks 15th in the nation in sacks allowed, giving up 14 sacks all year. On the other hand, LSU is ranked 72nd giving up a gargantuan 29 sacks this year. In running the football, LSU is 11TH accumulating 218 yards/game on the ground. OSU is 22nd with 201 yards/game. While OSU has the advantage on the defensive side of the football, LSU appears more dominant in the running game. Something has to give when both teams collide on Monday night. Can OSU show some resistance in stopping the LSU run attack? Can LSU put some pressure on OSU QB Todd Boeckman and penetrate a strong OSU offensive line? Time will tell as we are close to crowning the 2007 Champions.