Showdown on the Plains

Jordan-Hare Stadium will be a live wire come 3:30 EST today. Both teams are looking to make a run, not just in the SEC West, but for a shot to play in Atlanta. That is what is truly on the line here. Playing Alabama will come in due time but this game could decide who has the best shot to beat the them. LSU comes in as the underdog, even after taking care of Miami the way they did in week 1, the verdict is still out if they can produce a consistent offense. One more thing to consider is this- Auburn is a different team at home. I don’t know if it’s their fans or the eagle flight before kick off or the trees at Toomer’s corner, but the tigers truly protect their house when they’re the home team.

Here are my keys to the game:

1. LSU rushing attack –  LSU has got to get their ground game going if they are going to stand a chance in this game. Nick Brossette has been averaging 6.4 yards a carry in the past two games. The kid can break tackles and take it to the house, but I think he’s going to need some help up front. Also, Clyde Edwards-Helaire will need to get his share of carries too. Both backs have only three rushing touchdowns combined.
2. Joe Burrow game management – The Buckeye transfer has been solid in his past two games. He has thrown two touchdowns and no interceptions. He’s been consistent and shown that he can make plays down field, but he hasn’t been truly tested yet. He will today. How will he react to pressure? The Quarterback must keep his poise in this game. Burrow has to find a way to make plays in this game and lead the Tiger offense like he did against Miami.
3. Auburn Defense – Auburn held (then #6) Washington to only 25 yards rushing in week 1. Washington is no cupcake so that was impressive. The Tiger defense will need more of that today against LSU’s potent rushing attack. If Auburn can contain LSU’s ground game, I like the “plains tigers’ chances today.
4. Jarrett Stidham – Stidham has picked up where he left off from last season. Through two games, he has passed for 386 yards, thrown for two touchdowns and no interceptions. Stidham to me is the difference maker in this game. His leadership and game management is superior to most in the game. At some point in this game I believe he will take over and win it for Auburn.

So there you have it. I have Auburn winning 20-17 over the Bayo Bangles today. It will be a good one. The game is on CBS – 3:30 PM EST.