Welcome back, Tiger fans! It’s Texas week, and I’m struggling to keep my composure. This is possibly the biggest non-conference game of the year of the entire sport, and the hype around it is sending both fanbases to a state of hysteria. I’m not big on bold statements to the media, such as K’Lavon Chaisson’s “I don’t see him as much of a threat” remarks regarding Texas QB Sam Ehlinger in a press conference. However, I like the fact that Chaisson stands behind his words, rather than the subtle digs Texas is offering, such as the DBU t-shirts (Defensive Back University, which coach Tom Herman approved) that allegedly have nothing to do with LSU. This game is critical for both teams. As far as the impact of the results, Power 5 teams can afford one loss and make it to the playoffs, but it leaves a slim margin for error the rest of the season. If Texas loses they have to beat Oklahoma likely twice to secure a spot, once in the regular season and once in the Big XII championship. If LSU loses, they’d have to beat Auburn, Florida, Alabama, Texas A&M, and likely Georgia in the SEC championship to reach the playoffs. The winner makes an early season impression on the playoff committee, announcing themselves as a bonafide player in this year’s championship race. Now that we know the stakes, I’ll look into how the teams match up.

Texas offense vs. LSU defense

The Texas offense has suffered blow after blow with injuries and suspensions. They’re down to one true scholarship running back, sophomore Keontay Ingram. Backing him up is converted QB Roschon Johnson and converted LB David Gbenda. At receiver they have NFL talent in 6’6” Collin Johnson and 5’11” speedster Devin Duvernay. Texas sophomore WR Joshua Moore is suspended for the game, so kudos to Coach Herman for making a tough decision for a monumental game. I feel the lack of RB’s is less of an issue than it would be with other teams because of the ability of QB Sam Ehlinger. The tough runner and capable passer is most importantly a leader that the team believes in. Unfortunately for the Longhorns, leadership won’t be enough against this LSU defense. This is as impressive of a defense at all three levels that I’ve seen at LSU since 2011. It always starts up front where it appears the light has come on for NG Tyler Shelvin. I don’t think Texas can consistently block Rashard Lawrence, Glen Logan, and Breiden Fehoko. The return of LB Michael Divinity makes some wonder how the ILB’s will rotate. If you’re Dave Aranda, don’t outsmart yourself; Divinity was great coming off the edge last year, so keep him at OLB. I like Texas’s receivers, but not against this secondary. The only thing that could keep CB’s Kristian Fulton, Derek Stingley, and safety Grant Delpit out of the first round is injury. LSU gets the edge in this match up.

LSU offense vs Texas Defense

The excitement of a new football season for LSU had a lot to do with the new offense. I was particularly impressed with the play calling and execution in the first game. I think LSU will pass the ball well, but I think they will do so because Texas doesn’t have the front seven to stop the running game without help. The strongest position group on the Texas defense is the secondary, specifically their safeties. If they don’t bring a safety in the box LSU will run for 200 yards. When they do bring one up Burrow will make them pay deep down the field. As a recruiting nerd, I realize Texas has talent on defense; what they don’t have is experience and depth. The self proclaimed DBU gave up 260 passing yards a game last year. Look for Joe Burrow to draw the safeties up then pick the defense apart for 300+ passing yards. WR Ja’Marr Chase will officially arrive on the national scene with a big game while the whole country is watching. Advantage LSU.

The hardest thing to account for in games like this is the home field advantage. Playing at UT isn’t as intimidating as playing at the Swamp in Florida, but they do have passionate fans with a miniscule allotment of tickets for LSU. Texas is a legitimate contender in the Big XII, but they’re not “back”. Although coach Tom Herman has them on the right track, this is a statement game for LSU. The Tigers will show the college football world that nothing is out of reach for this team. LSU won’t be favored to win the SEC after this game, but they will be in the conversation with Bama and Georgia. LSU 31 – Texas 14

GEAUX TIGERS!!