LSU’s mindset and approach
Matthew Brune, writing for The Bengal Tiger, spoke with GamecockCentral to assess how LSU views this upcoming game. The Tigers see South Carolina as a formidable opponent, especially with their physical style at the line of scrimmage. LSU expects a slugfest one where execution, turnovers, and special teams could tip the balance.
Brune highlighted that LSU’s coaching staff is likely to lean into their strengths: taking what the defense gives them, being patient in passing sets, and trusting their running backs to grind yards. They know South Carolina will bring energy and aggression, so avoiding negative plays (e.g. penalties or tackles for loss) becomes crucial.
At the same time, LSU recognizes that they can’t afford to fall behind. In such rival-esque showdowns, momentum swings are magnified. Underperforming early in the trenches, on third downs, or in the red zone could allow the Gamecocks to seize control. Brune notes that LSU must be sharp from the outset to avoid giving USC confidence.
Key players, strengths, and vulnerabilities
One of LSU’s focal points is quarterback Garrett Nussmeier. Brune notes that Nussmeier has dealt with a torso injury, which has at times limited his downfield passing ability. That, in turn, places greater urgency on the run game and play-action to open up space.
Receiver Aaron Anderson is viewed as one of the Tigers’ more reliable targets. His rapport with the quarterback has become more critical this season, particularly when LSU’s run game has struggled. Brune believes LSU will try to get Anderson involved early, especially if the passing toolbox is constrained.
On the ground, LSU has placed emphasis on re-establishing an effective run game. Their plan includes using backs like Caden Durham (when healthy) and other complementary backs, to force South Carolina’s defense to respect the ground attack. Brune suggests that if LSU can consistently gain yards with their running backs, it would open up more manageable passing windows and reduce pressure on Nussmeier.
However, vulnerabilities are present. The Tigers’ offensive line has shown some fragility, particularly against edge pressure and in limiting negative plays. If South Carolina can disrupt the timing or push LSU’s front five backward, that could derail their offensive rhythm. Also, if Nussmeier’s injury flares or if receivers struggle to separate, LSU’s offense could stall. Brune underscores that these weaknesses are likely to be tested heavily by the Gamecocks.
What LSU must control to win and how South Carolina can counter
Brune argues that LSU must control the line of scrimmage. Winning in the trenches gives them the chance to sustain drives, open up play-action, shorten third downs, and dictate tempo. If LSU cedes ground there, the game could slip away.
Minimizing mistakes is another priority. Turnovers, penalties, and dropped passes can swing momentum and in a close SEC matchup, those margins matter dearly. LSU must keep their composure, especially in key situations (third down, red zone, two-minute drives).
From South Carolina’s perspective, opportunities lie in attacking the Tigers’ weaknesses. Getting after the quarterback, forcing negative plays in the backfield, disrupting rhythm, and capitalizing on any turnover is their path to victory. The Gamecocks can also lean on crowd energy especially if the game atmosphere intensifies to pressure LSU into mistakes. Brune observes that LSU will need to respond to that heat and maintain poise under duress.
All told, Brune’s piece paints this as a compelling matchup of strengths vs. vulnerabilities. If LSU can play clean, win in short-yardage, and keep Nussmeier upright, they’ll be hard to beat. If South Carolina can turn the screws up front and force errors, they might steer the game in their favor.
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