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 \u201cshowdown\u201d. 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.<\/p>\n
LSU has reached the point where it doesn\u2019t even matter who it\u2019s playing against. The team desperately needs to find its way offensively. Sure, the Garrett Nussmeier<\/a> injury news helps explain the struggles. Although understanding the problem dulls the pain of offensive ineptitude, it doesn\u2019t cure the condition.<\/p>\n Nussmeier\u2019s injury explains the lack of downfield shots, but it has nothing to do with the predictable rushing attack. Many have pointed out that LSU\u2019s running game was productive on early downs but struggled in third and short against Florida. That\u2019s 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.<\/p>\n As for the passing element, simply let it rip. The staff is adamant that Nussmeier will play. If that\u2019s the case, fans don\u2019t want to see him in a meaningless game to hand the ball off to running backs. Let\u2019s hope that he\u2019s encouraged to push the ball down the field and develop chemistry with his dangerous weapons on the outside. If LSU can\u2019t get the passing game going against Southeastern, then who can it pass against?<\/p>\n We just saw a backup safety in Dashawn Spears<\/a> turn nine snaps into two interceptions, a touchdown, and a National Defensive Player of the Week award. We were high on the depth<\/a> of this team leading up to the season, and it has exceeded our expectations. But there\u2019s still even more to see.<\/p>\n 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\u2019t allowed the numbers shortage to affect their effort. It\u2019s 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<\/a> convert on a shot or two.<\/p>\n This game could also be a good opportunity for Davhon Keys. There\u2019s 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.<\/p>\nDeveloping Depth<\/strong><\/h3>\n
Maintaining Focus<\/strong><\/h3>\n