Saturday’s LSU-ULM game is another must win for the Tigers. The program is coming off a stunning 16-13 overtime loss against SEC West rival Arkansas. In what will likely be Ed Orgeron’s final two games as head coach, the Tigers need a win this weekend.
LSU-ULM Preview
Earning a win against the ULM Warhawks would move the Tigers to 5-6 on the season. That would set up another must win situation next week against Texas A&M to get bowl eligible. Entering this week, the LSU offense will be the key. Sophomore quarterback Max Johnson will start under center, and freshman Garrett Nussmeier may not see the field. Against Arkansas, Nussmeier played three quarters and failed to get the Tigers to victory.
Offense Efficiency is Key
Facing the Warhawks, LSU should be able to easily move the ball down the field. Louisiana-Monroe is allowing 464 total yards of offense and 35 points per game. While the Tigers have struggled to find the end zone, this game is more of a “get better” game situation. Before the regular season finale, LSU has a chance to get the momentum back on its side. Looking on the outside, Jack Bech has put up solid numbers for the Tigers this season. With a diminished receiving corps due to injuries, the freshman has stepped up in a big way. Johnson will have to be able to hit his targets and make accurate throws to continue drives. One thing the offense cannot do is continuously go three-and-out against a mid-major program.
Another factor into the success of the LSU offense will be the running game. Josh Williams and Tyrion Davis-Price must find open lanes to extend drives, especially on third down. Offensive coordinator Jake Peetz could end up dialing up more running plays this week with the Tigers playing a lower tier program. The game plan doesn’t need to be pass-heavy, but LSU has to start running the ball more effectively. The offensive line is still dinged up, but the front seven have to block well and pull the guards and tackles to get the running backs room on the field.
Tigers Defense Can Continue Success
While a Warhawks upset is unlikely, the LSU defense must remain on its toes. Coordinator Daronte Jones has devised a solid game plan the past few weeks. The unit has responded to that with playing at a high level despite all the injuries on that side of the ball. Newcomers and backups have stepped into big time roles. Going up against ULM, the Tigers’ pass coverage has to be on point. Warhawks quarterback Chandler Rogers has eight touchdowns and three interceptions this season. However, he has passed for over 1,200 yards in 2021. Many do not expect Louisiana-Monroe to throw the ball all over the field against the Tigers. This LSU defense is solid enough to contain the Warhawks’ offense and force three-and-outs to get the offense the ball back.
This weekend’s LSU-ULM game could give backups extended playing time. The first team offense likely won’t remain on the field the entire game. If ULM keeps this one close, that could be the case. However, LSU is a 29 point favorite and should win this one easily.
