Many people have questioned the quality of Alabama’s opponents this year as the Crimson Tide have blazed their way to an 8-0 record.

However, things are about to pick up significantly, as the Tide travel to Baton Rouge in Week 10 for what should be a top-five battle against LSU.

During Tuesday’s bye week press conference, Saban said the Tigers are absolutely legitimate and a threat to win the SEC title:

“If you’re asking me if LSU is legitimate, I absolutely think they’re legitimate,” he said. “I think they have a really, really good team. I think they’ve played a difficult schedule and have done a good job beating some really good teams. I think they’re playing really well on both sides of the ball and are well coached. I think Ed (Orgeron)’s done a really, really good job with the program. I think they’re a very, very legitimate contender in our league and it’s going to be the big game for both teams.”

Both teams have a bye this week to prepare, which means next weekend’s game should be an even better battle between two fresh squads.