LSU really needed their monster second half against Mississippi State last time out. Now the 2-1 Tigers are positioned to make a run in the SEC West after first taking care of 2-1 New Mexico.
By Steve Wright
Follow @14powerscom
Here are the three keys to a LSU Tigers victory:
Keep Hold Of The Ball
New Mexico is a much feistier team than they have been in the past. They are scoring just under four touchdowns a game, with much of that offensive power being fueled by a defense that is outstanding at taking the ball away.
LSU seems unlikely to turn the ball over seven times as UTEP did in the Lobos win, but turnovers tend to breed turnovers. This New Mexico team is fourth in the country in taking the ball away, with their defense gambling on causing pressure to force mistakes. LSU has to be careful and not let New Mexico think they have a chance with yet another slow start.
Stay Balanced
This LSU team doesn’t wow with just one thing but does many things right. Quarterback Jayden Daniels is the unquestioned star of the offense, and the transfer has eight total touchdowns on the season. A threat with both his arm and his legs, Daniels’ ability also allows the run game to work as the defense has to respect his ability to take off and focus less on the running backs.
The defense works similarly. Head coach Bian Kelly has several athletes who get to the ball and are sure tacklers. The defensive pressure – and especially play in the secondary – killed the Mississippi State passing attack last time out, more play like that will shut New Mexico down early.
Run Armoni Goodwin
This is a game that Goodwin should take over. He has 26 carries on the year for 174 yards and three touchdowns. Goodwin isn’t much of a threat in the passing game, which limits his effectiveness against elite sides, but the offensive line will open up so many lanes in this one that he should thrive. Keeping Daniels healthy is massive for LSU in 2022. To that end, Daniels shouldn’t run much here and instead rely on his back to get the job done.
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