The difference between scoring a field goal or a touchdown in the red zone can dramatically alter the result of any game.

Efficiency in regards to both scoring on an opponent and also stopping an opponent is paramount. On the defensive side of the ball, there are three SEC programs demonstrating a staunch commitment to stiffening their respective spine — thus making it difficult for teams to score on them.

Interestingly enough, these three teams could ultimately derail Alabama’s shot at making it to the College Football Playoff.

LSU is No. 1 in the conference when it comes to allowing touchdowns in red-zone opportunities. Opponents have made 18 trips to the red zone versus Ed Orgeron’s team, and have only scored six touchdowns. This equates to a 30-percent touchdown conversion rate.

There have been 14 red-zone chances against the Florida Gators. Jim McElwain’s team leads the conference when it comes to defending in these situations. Teams have scored (field goal or touchdown) 64.3-percent of the time. This is the lowest mark of any team in the conference.

As for Auburn, it ranks No. 3 in the country on points per red-zone trip:

The Crimson Tide squares off against LSU next weekend, and will finish their regular season in the Iron Bowl versus Auburn. There’s also a real possibility it will face Florida in the SEC Title Game.

If these trends continue, it could make the contests between Alabama and these programs very interesting.