Alabama is four regular season games and a conference championship win away from a third straight College Football Playoff appearance and could quite possibility be on the verge of its fifth national title under coach Nick Saban.

Obviously that would require the Crimson Tide to continue winning, but with an 8-0 record and an average margin of victory of 25.6 points against ranked opponents, becoming one of the four teams in the playoff is expected.

Still, it’s not guaranteed. With an always challenging trip to Baton Rouge up next and the Iron Bowl looming, Alabama has work to do.

CBS Sports sideline reporter Allie LaForce told MAD Radio in Houston earlier on Wednesday that both LSU and Auburn pose as threats to Alabama’s throne atop the college football world.

“Absolutely, without a doubt,” LaForce said. “The truth is Auburn, LSU, Alabama and Texas A&M all still have a chance (in the SEC West). “I really do believe football teams have to have perfect games against this Alabama team. You can’t make mistakes. You can’t turn the ball over. Alabama capitalizes on turnovers and scoring. …

“I wouldn’t put it past either one of them. Alabama has weaknesses, believe it or not, people don’t like to hear it, but a couple of mistakes by Alabama can be big moments for these teams. Capitalize on big plays and not turn the ball over, obviously, it can happen.”

But before fans head over to Twitter to express their lack of approval, know this: Allie is still very high on the Tide.

“They can beat you on the ground and through the air,” she explained. “(Quarterback) Jalen Hurts has been outstanding this season. You have heard Nick Saban praise him over and over again. … He plays with a veteran presence. … He’s really calm. He’s not affected by anything.

“The defense has been outstanding. They’re having so much fun together. They are so athletic and talented.”