Before the season, no one could have predicted Missouri would be ranked ahead of LSU when the two teams meet on the first Saturday in October. But that’s the situation we have as 21st ranked Mizzou hosts 23rd ranked LSU.
This is only the fourth meeting between the two teams. Missouri won the last match-up, a 45-41 victory in 2020. And there’s the potential of another high scoring game Saturday.
Who can get off the field on third down?
There are 130 teams in FBS. LSU ranks 118th in the country in third down defense, allowing opponents to convert 47% of the time. Missouri is ranked 57th as they’ve allowed opponents to convert 37% of the time. Blown coverages and missed tackles have plagued both teams. LSU Coach Brian Kelly said they spent more time on tackling this week, with a focus on form.
Which WR receiver will go off
This game might feature the SEC’s three best receivers. Malik Nabers and Brian Thomas for LSU and Missouri’s Luther Burden, a former five-star recruit. They like to line Burden up in the slot and he’s tough to tackle in the open field. He’s caught 43 passes for 644 yards and five touchdowns.
LSU’s Brian Thomas has figured it out and he’s been especially dangerous the last two games, with back-to-back 100-yard games.
Can LSU’s defensive line live up to its potential?
There’s a lot of talk about youth and inexperience in the defensive secondary leading to bad results. But it’s the defensive line that’s been underwhelming. Former LSU assistant Pete Jenkins was brought in this week to help teach the fundamentals. But in the end, it’s up to the players. LSU is tied for 82nd in tackles for a loss, averaging just five a game. Just nine sacks in five games.
Missouri quarterback Brady Cook gets off the ball quick and he’s not thrown an interception in an SEC record 347 consecutive passes. His last interception came last October.
Can LSU establish a running game?
We know LSU can throw the ball, but will the Tigers try to keep the ball on the ground more to help eat up the time of possession and keep its defense off the field. But Missouri has been stout against the run, allowing 75 yards per game, eighth best in the country.
Money coming in on Missouri
After watching LSU give up 706 total yards of offense, it was a little stunning to see LSU as a 6.5 point favorite. The spread is down to four as Missouri looks to improve to 6-0. LSU desperately needs a bounce back win. This one has the makings of another wild game.