The LSU-Auburn matchup on Saturday will be one of the best college football games of the season thus far. Both teams come into the game with a 2-0 record. LSU has found their identity on offense and defense, and a win in this game would be huge for Ed Orgeron and the program. The Tigers are seeking to get their first win in Auburn since 2012. With a new quarterback and a new-look offense, this game has College Football Playoff and SEC implications.
LSU-Auburn Preview
What to Expect from the LSU Offense
The Bayou Bengals finally have their quarterback. Joe Burrow has proven himself in the first two games of the season, against Miami and Southeastern Louisiana, respectively. Burrow looked the part against Miami in what was a solid debut in the purple and gold. He stepped it up last weekend and gained more confidence as the Tigers’ starter. Heading into Auburn, Burrow will have to be on his best game to keep the offense going against a stifling Auburn defense.
Nick Brossette has gained the confidence of his teammates as the starter in the backfield. The Senior finally earned his chance this season, and has proven that he can lead the way. His electrifying runs against Miami set the tone for him to have a successful season. However, he will share carries this weekend with Clyde Edwards-Helaire and Chris Curry. Both Helaire and Curry have shown flashes of what they can become in the new offense.
Bayou Bengals’ Elite Defense
Defensively, the Tigers set the tone early as well. Devin White and the elite defense are looking solid through two games. Only giving up 17 points in two games is a staple of what this unit can accomplish. With Kristian Fulton back at corner, the defense is set. Dave Aranda has done a tremendous job getting his unit ready for battle. The defense will face a tough test against a solid Auburn offense, that contains Heisman hopeful Jarrett Stidham at quarterback. If the defense can hold Stidham and the offense, LSU’s offense will have to do their work and reach the end zone.
Auburn’s Electric Offense Will Come to Play
Stidham will provide an intense passing game for Auburn. He has the ability to pick apart any defense, and he can certainly do that against LSU. However, LSU’s defense has been solid when it comes to stopping quarterbacks from reaching their greatest level of play.
Auburn running back JaTarvious Whitlow is a talented freshman that has played well in the first two games. Whitlow has become a fan favorite among the Auburn fans. His great running style will keep LSU’s defense on their heels during Saturday’s game.
Game Implications and Final Thoughts
The LSU-Auburn series frequently comes down to the wire. Last season, LSU erased a 20-0 deficit in Baton Rouge and came back for a 27-23 win. This match-up will be one of the best SEC games of the 2018 season. Both teams want a win and a higher ranking. LSU needs the win more than Auburn, given that the Tigers have already silenced the doubters with their opening-weekend rout of Miami. A win in Auburn for Orgeron would be huge, and would keep his job for a while longer through the season.
