Could Tropical Storm Rafael Upend LSU vs Alabama in Baton Rouge?

This year's LSU versus Alabama game doesn't carry the magnitude that some previous matchups had, but that doesn't mean its not a huge game. Instead of being a "Game of the Century" type matchup, with undefeated teams grinding it out, this is essentially an elimination game.

With the new 12-team College Football Playoff, both of these teams are still alive for a National Championship. But with both teams already holding 2 losses, a third loss probably knocks them out of playoff contention.

So the drama will still be high...and now it looks like Mother Nature wants a good seat.

There's currently a tropical system with its eyes on the Gulf of Mexico. Its called Tropical Storm Rafael, and it has formed in the Caribbean. While it's a long way from Baton Rouge right now, the models and forecasts suggest this storm will ride into the Gulf, and turn towards the coastline.

Now the exact landfall location in the US is a few days away from precisely forecasting, but the "cone of uncertainty" currently places Louisiana in the path.

The storm isn't expected to be a massive, devastating hurricane when it makes landfall. Even though it may grow to hurricane strength in the Gulf. But even a Tropical Storm could bring difficult conditions to Tiger Stadium. Powerful winds and driving rain are still likely in Tropical Storm conditions, not to mention the lightning, which can shut down an outdoor game very quickly.

On top of the concerns with game conditions, ESPN is planning to bring their College GameDay show to Baton Rouge for the matchup. The show is traditionally held outside with thousands of students and fans. The introduction of a Tropical Storm could change those plans.

Right now, there's no panic to be had. This is all just being forecasted, and the storm could completely hook east and hit Alabama or Florida. Its a November storm in the Gulf, its as unpredictable as an LSU versus Alabama game in Death Valley.