Alabama football played its best game of the season on Saturday night, especially when considering its opponent.

The No. 8 Crimson Tide shellshocked the best offense in football, outlasting No. 14 LSU, 42-28, in a shootout in Bryant-Denny Stadium. Quarterback Jalen Milroe set a program record with four rushing touchdowns, the defense held LSU to multiple season-lows and UA (8-1, 6-0 SEC) is one win or Ole Miss conference loss away from booking a trip to Atlanta.

What did Nick Saban think about the win? UA’s head coach will meet with reporters shortly to recap the win and reveal any injury news.

–Saban called it a “great team win,” giving credit to the offense’s performance, especially on third down.

–Saban said Alabama “needed” a game like that, playing for a full 60 minutes and hanging in there against a tough opponent. That was the closest the Tide has had to a “complete performance” this fall.

–Saban credited Alabama’s offensive line and running backs.

“I thought this was the best execution we had from an efficiency standpoint (in the running game),” Saban said.

— “This group of guys have shown tremendous resiliency,” Saban said. “ … It’s resulted in a team that improves.”

–Saban “can’t tell” yet on the ankle injury of linebacker Deontae Lawson and the quad injury of defensive back Jaylen Key.

–Saban said on LSU’s first touchdown, a throw from Jayden Daniels to Malik Nabors, was caused after the Tide secondary was caught worrying about Daniels’ ability to run.

–Saban said most of Daniels’ long runs came on pass plays.

“We had spies on him, couldn’t get him on the ground,” Saban said, admitting Alabama had its best success stopping Daniels rushing five and playing man coverage.

— “It’s obvious the guy is much more comfortable as a passer,” Saban said of Milroe. ” … I think he’s learned to play the next play.”

— “I think the defensive players did a good job of responding,” Saban said after LSU managed a double-score to end the first half and start the second.

“I think our team has shown tremendous resiliency all year long.”

–Saban was asked about the crowd and thanked the fans for the atmosphere they provided this week and against Tennessee.

— “We’ve done some things protection-wise to help the tackles a little bit,” Saban said after Alabama allowed just one sack against the Tigers.

Nick Alvarez is a reporter for Alabama Media Group. Follow him on Twitter @nick_a_alvarez or email him at [email protected].