For the last two seasons, the Arkansas Razorbacks have held an advantage over LSU. The Tigers have played poorly against the hogs the last two meetings, and things need to change for LSU if they want to take back their trophy. “The Boot“, as it is called, is the annual trophy that the winner of the LSU-Arkansas game receives each year. In 2014, LSU was shut out in Fayetteville in a game that the hogs had control of the whole way. Last season, LSU was coming off a loss to Alabama and was ranked ninth in the country when they lost at home to Arkansas. A lot is at stake this time, as both LSU and Arkansas are competing for a bowl berth. For both teams it is a must-win game. Here is what each team needs to do on Saturday to seal a victory:
Keys to victory for LSU:
- Passing game has to be sufficient- Over the course of 2016, LSU has been up and down in the passing game. Quarterback Danny Etling has played most of the snaps, except for the first game against Wisconsin. For the Tigers to notch a win, Etling and his receivers need to be on the same page.
2. Leonard Fournette must have over 100 rushing yards- In last week’s contest against Alabama, Fournette was held to under 50 rushing yards, which gave way to the win for the Tide. He hasn’t seen the Heisman potential season he was hoping for. If he has a breakout game against the Razorbacks, the Tigers should come out with a win.
3. Defense must play another lockdown game- For the Tigers defense, they stepped up last week. They held Alabama to no points until the 4th quarter, which was a big accomplishment. Although LSU lost the game, the defense was credited with playing their best game of the season. If they can repeat that style of play on Saturday, the offense will hopefully find the endzone more times than Arkansas.
Keys to victory for Arkansas:
- Austin Allen must be on point with his throws. Razorbacks QB Austin Allen is an underrated quarterback who has great potential. In order for his team to get a win, he must make accurate throws to his receivers.
2. Running game has to be effective. Arkansas’ running game hasn’t relieved them in wins this year, although they have been effective. If leading rusher Rawleigh Williams III can have a dominant game, the rushing attack may be the break they need for a win.
3. Defense. The Arkansas defense played a stellar game last week against Florida. The hogs D held the Gators to just under 250 yards of offense and earned a 31-10 win at home. Defense will be key in this matchup for both squads. If the Razorbacks defense can hold LSU out of the endzone, Arkansas should notch the win.
Playing this game in late November has it perks, but not this year. Both LSU and Arkansas are out of contention to win the SEC West. A bowl berth is still at stake for both teams.
