The computers like LSU more than the pollsters.
The Tigers, currently Nos. 11 and 12 in the two major human polls, moved up to No. 10 in the Bowl Championship Series standings after having the weekend off.
LSU (7-1) was No. 12 in last week’s BCS standings.
Auburn (9-0), who beat LSU 24-17 Oct. 23, dropped out of the top spot despite its 51-31 win against Ole Miss. Oregon (8-0) replaced them at No. 1 after trouncing USC 53-32 late Saturday.
Following the Ducks in the rankings are TCU, Boise State and Utah. Alabama (7-1), who LSU plays this Saturday, sits at No. 6.
LSU could still realistically re-enter the national title conversation. Auburn still has to play Georgia and Alabama. Meanwhile, if LSU wins out and finishes the regular season at 11-1, it would win the Southeastern Conference Western Division.
Many experts believe a one-loss SEC team would be a lock for the national championship game.
Other SEC teams appearing in the poll are Arkansas (No. 18), South Carolina (No. 19) and Mississippi State (No. 20).