Before a blowout win over Western Kentucky two weeks ago, LSU’s weak-side defensive end Lewis Neal had been enjoying the best three-game stretch of his career.

Neal played plenty but didn’t start his first two seasons with the Tigers.

The wheels started turning this season for the former 3-star recruit. The junior registered 6.0 sacks and 6.5 tackles for loss in the first three games of October. He has 7 this season, third in the SEC.

The question is, can he keep it rolling in Tuscaloosa?

LSU has been the best team in the SEC through the first two months.

The Tigers are the only undefeated team and feature the clear Heisman Trophy favorite in Leonard Fournette.

However, Alabama is unlike any team they’ve played.

The Tide also features a Heisman contender in Derrick Henry and the best rushing defense in the SEC (78.5 rushing yards allowed per game, third in college football).

LSU’s defense must show its ready for primetime, which is where Neal comes in.

“It’s not about focusing on what they do,” Neal told Nola.com. “When we focus on the things we need to do and perfect those, everything will fall into place.”

There is so much emphasis on the two running backs, but Neal was quick to note that Alabama’s quarterback, Jake Coker, can play, too.

“He’s a great quarterback,” Neal said. “He’s got a great arm. If you let him throw it, he’ll throw it. We have to have the pressure. Have to.”

That’s how LSU has won thus far, with Neal at the top of his game.

LSU could not have beaten Florida on Oct. 17 had it not been for the defensive end’s monster 3.0 sack game, including a huge sack to end the momentum on the Gators’ final drive.

There are many reasons LSU debuted at No. 2 seed in the first College Football Playoff rankings. Fournette is at the top of the list, but not far behind is the emergence of young standouts like Neal.

Saturday night provides his biggest opportunity yet, a strength-on-strength affair that brings a smile to his face.

“This game will be won up front,” he said.