TUSCALOOSA, Ala. (AP) - Alabama coach Nick Saban says game manager is the ultimate compliment for a quarterback.

He says that's what the top-ranked Crimson Tide has in the nation's top-rated passer AJ McCarron. No. 5 LSU would love to get similar efficiency from strong-armed Zach Mettenberger in Saturday night's game.

Both are supported by punishing tailbacks and terrific defenses.

McCarron has been the consummate game manager and played mistake-free football.

The Alabama quarterback's 262 consecutive passes without an interception is the second-longest in Southeastern Conference history, behind the 325 thrown by Kentucky's Andre' Woodson.

McCarron says the game manager label means taking what the defense gives and ``not making any bonehead mistakes.''

Miscues could be especially costly in this game. Alabama leads the SEC with 14 interceptions and LSU is second with 13.