On Saturday, LSU welcomed McNeese back into Death Valley for the first time since their last matchup five years ago. Despite being a nonconference opponent, Tiger Stadium remained full for Parents Weekend. The Tigers welcomed fans from all around the state and the country. Many bought tickets to experience Tiger Stadium for the first time. The game went exactly how Tiger fans were hoping it would, with LSU taking a big victory by winning 63-14.
Photo Cred: The News-Star
The Tigers gained over 700 yards on offense. It’s the second-most in school history. They also had 101 total offensive snaps, breaking the school record. On the defensive side the Tiger defense held strong early. With three consecutive three-and-outs, the game quickly became out of reach. McNeese’s offense struggled in the first half, successfully crossing into Tiger territory only once.
With the large blowout, Lane Kiffin decided to have some fun with his players. Defensive tackle Deuce Geralds became the first player in LSU history to record a sack and an offensive touchdown. The only player with a similar stat line is Anthony “Booger” McFarland, who recorded a half-sack and an offensive touchdown in a game against the Florida Gators in 1995.
However, the game did not come without a few bumps in the road. Top receiver Winston Watkins Jr., a transfer from Ole Miss, found himself struggling. He recorded a season-low three catches for 40 yards. While the yard total is slightly impressive, most of it came from one pass, where he gained 22 yards. The game allowed LSU to utilize their backups and give them real in-game practice before a long SEC stretch, with games that will determine their postseason hopes.
The defense will still have to adjust to missing star linebacker Whit Weeks. Meanwhile, the offense is adjusting its game plans as Sam Leavitt’s running is still minimal after his slight hamstring injury against Texas A&M. This comes along with missing Trey’Dez Green, their 6’7” tight end, who is a proven red-zone threat and an easy target.
Photo Cred: SI
For the rest of the season, LSU will face some top conference opponents, including home games against three ranked opponents: No. 17 Mississippi State, No. 6 Alabama, and No. 1 Texas, the toughest of the three. Along with those games, LSU will travel to Neyland Stadium to face No. 15 Tennessee. The rankings will most likely face some changes before LSU is set to meet these opponents, but the road ahead will not be easy for the Tigers.
