Clyde Edwards-Helaire is the X-Factor in LSU's National Championship Clash With Clemson

No shortage of superstars will take to the Mercedes-Benz Superdome turf on Monday night when No. 1 LSU and No. 3 Clemson face off in the College Football Playoff National Championship.

But what if we told you that the true X-factor for Ed Orgeron's offense for this game wasn't Heisman Trophy-winning QB Joe Burrow?

That's right, folks. Previously hobbled tailback Clyde Edwards-Helaire will prove to be the ultimate difference-maker for the Bayou Bengals' championship aspirations.

Though he looked healthier than most forecasted, the Tigers didn't ask Edwards-Helaire to do much against Oklahoma in their CFP semifinal, as Burrow threw for nearly 500 yards and seven (!) touchdowns en route to a resounding victory. With the star running back permitted an extra two weeks to rest his hamstring, however, expect Coach O and Co. to give Edwards-Helaire all the work he can possibly handle on Monday night.

The reason? The sheer mismatch that LSU's monstrous offensive line will create up front against their challengers.

Dabo Swinney will most definitely be zeroed in on hindering the likes of Justin Jefferson and Ja'Marr Chase out wide in the passing game, and that will create significant real estate upon which Edwards-Helaire will scamper, including on screens and checkdowns.

This kid was a nightmare for SEC defensive coordinators all season long, and LSU offensive coordinator Steve Ensminger is as good as anybody at exploiting mismatches. All told, this team will go as far as Edwards-Helaire can take them.