The Texas A&M Aggies will have their last game of the season against the LSU Tigers at home. Texas A&M won the last two matchups in Kyle Field against LSU, so a victory in this game is not out of the question. However, the Tigers are an improved team from last year with transfer quarterback Jayden Daniels. LSU already has a spot in the SEC Championship. Brian Kelly‘s squad needs to win Saturday to keep the team’s playoff hopes alive. Here’s a quick preview of Texas A&M’s upcoming night game against LSU.
Preview: Texas A&M vs. LSU
How does the Aggies’ Offense Produce?
A similar question was posed in recent games, but this one has a different twist to it. There’s a chance that Texas A&M will be without both Devon Achane and Evan Stewart in this game. After putting up only 20 points against Massachusetts, it’s hard to imagine that the Aggies can score three touchdowns against the Tigers.
While Conner Weigman is likely to be the starting quarterback for the next two years for the Aggies, he will need a dominant performance on Saturday to come out with a win. Currently, his primary receiving options are Moose Muhammad III, Noah Thomas, and Donovan Green. LSU has a decent secondary, so A&M’s playmakers will need to step up for Jimbo Fisher‘s team to have a fighting chance.
The offensive line needs to have an eye on Harold Perkins at all times. Outside of Georgia, the Tigers have arguably the best pass rush in the SEC. Given the offensive line’s struggles, Weigman could be in for a tough night if he’s forced to stay in the pocket. Fisher and Darrell Dickey will need to scheme plays in such a way that the ball gets out quickly.
Hopefully, we see more production from Amari Daniels and Le’Veon Moss on Saturday night. These two will need to step up big in Achane’s absence. A running game is the only way for the Aggies to be balanced and consistent on offense.
Can A&M Stop A Dual-Threat Quarterback?
Daniels is undoubtedly lethal with his legs, and he has a plethora of options at receiver including Kayshon Boutte, Malik Nabers, Jaray Jenkins, etc. Texas A&M will have to again face one of its worst nightmares: a powerful running back duo. Josh Williams and John Emery Jr. split touches on offense, and either one of them can be effective against the Aggies’ defense.
DJ Durkin will need to find a way for his defense to limit LSU to under 20 points. While A&M has forced some turnovers, a defensive touchdown would be huge for the Aggies in terms of momentum. The offense oftentimes stagnates even after getting the ball in the opposing team’s territory.
Still, the defense will likely be the reason that Texas A&M is able to stay in this game. The 12th man should be a huge factor as well since the weather should improve by Saturday evening. Special teams will also need to play a key role, or the Aggies could be blown out at home.
Concluding Thoughts
Texas A&M finishing out with a win against LSU would be a great confidence boost heading into next season. There’s already talk of several players wanting to transfer, so this game could lead to a program shift much like South Carolina’s game against Tennessee. Regardless, the Aggies will need to give their fight for four quarters to have any chance at a victory.
