The rematch of the century takes place Monday night. And this time, there's more at stake than just bragging rights.

Top-ranked Louisiana State University Tigers take on No. 2 University of Alabama Crimson Tide in New Orleans for college football's national championship.

The showdown for the BCS championship game comes two months after the two giants battled in a tense Southeastern Conference match-up.

Both teams went into the November 5 game undefeated. College football pundits dubbed it the game of the century.

Alabama, playing at home in Tuscaloosa, lost 9-6.

For the Crimson Tide, Monday is a chance at redemption - and to settle the debate, one and for all, who is the best team in college football.

LSU has won all 13 of its games. Alabama is 11-1.

"These kind of competitive games, especially this game, playing somebody in your league that you already played, I think makes this a more special challenge," Alabama coach Nick Saban told reporters. "The opportunity that our players have to play LSU again is something that is unique."

LSU coach Les Miles said the key to winning the championship is his team's defense.

Both teams bring powerful offenses and stingy defenses into the New Orleans Superdome.

But special teams could also play a big part in the game.

LSU boasts an electrifying cornerback in Tyrann "the Honey Badger" Mathieu.

And the November game was decided when Alabama's kicker missed four field goals, including one in overtime.