LSU is set to host the mighty Lions of Southeastern Louisiana on Saturday in a highly anticipated contest with possible playoff implications. All right, you got us; only the true die-hard fans are pumped up for this in-state “showdown”. Despite the predictable outcome, fans want to see results that resolve the angst they might feel related to either perceived or actual team limitations. We came up with a list of plays, players, and production that the Tigers can offer to encourage their loyal fan base going into the bye week.
LSU vs. Southeastern Louisiana
Optimizing the Offense
LSU has reached the point where it doesn’t even matter who it’s playing against. The team desperately needs to find its way offensively. Sure, the Garrett Nussmeier injury news helps explain the struggles. Although understanding the problem dulls the pain of offensive ineptitude, it doesn’t cure the condition.
Nussmeier’s injury explains the lack of downfield shots, but it has nothing to do with the predictable rushing attack. Many have pointed out that LSU’s running game was productive on early downs but struggled in third and short against Florida. That’s true, but more creative play selection could provide the necessary juice to produce more explosive running plays. These plays could avoid short yardage situations altogether in some cases. The Tigers need more motion, ball carriers, and the unpredictable nature that gained success against Clemson.
As for the passing element, simply let it rip. The staff is adamant that Nussmeier will play. If that’s the case, fans don’t want to see him in a meaningless game to hand the ball off to running backs. Let’s hope that he’s encouraged to push the ball down the field and develop chemistry with his dangerous weapons on the outside. If LSU can’t get the passing game going against Southeastern, then who can it pass against?
Developing Depth
We just saw a backup safety in Dashawn Spears turn nine snaps into two interceptions, a touchdown, and a National Defensive Player of the Week award. We were high on the depth of this team leading up to the season, and it has exceeded our expectations. But there’s still even more to see.
The deep wide receiver room has obviously been held back by the lack of an explosive passing game. However, the players in the room haven’t allowed the numbers shortage to affect their effort. It’s rare to see the receiving group take so much pride in blocking, so that would make it even more gratifying to see players like Chris Hilton and Destyn Hill convert on a shot or two.
This game could also be a good opportunity for Davhon Keys. There’s no rush to force West Weeks onto the field after an injury against Florida. Keys stepped in nicely, and Zach Weeks could also see a chance to gain some valuable reps against a different team.
Maintaining Focus
The vibes surrounding LSU vs. Southeastern are similar to when the Tigers hosted Louisiana Tech a couple of weeks ago. It’s another non-Power Four opponent playing LSU coming off a big win in a highly publicized matchup. The Tigers didn’t meet Tech’s focus and intensity in that game, and the purple and gold nation was painfully anesthetized over four quarters.
Saturday will provide another chance for the LSU players to prove they can adequately motivate themselves regardless of the opponent. There won’t be many more cupcakes on the schedule for the Tigers. But an inspired effort would be a good sign that this team is maturing early into the season.
That kind of growth leads to teammates holding each other accountable. It can help LSU avoid drive-killing penalties. Discipline is a strong indicator of unselfishness, and a team that is more focused on a long-term goal than on individual praise. In short, a focused team on Saturday will display the items we previously listed by default.
Main Image: Ken Ruinard-USA TODAY Network via Imagn Images
