Preview: Mississippi State vs #8 LSU
Date: 9/20/14
Time: 7 PM ET
Television: ESPN
Spread: Mississippi State (+7)
Players To Watch
Dak Prescott, Quarterback (Mississippi State)
Athletic quarterbacks with entertaining arm talent are taking over the college football circuit, and Prescott certainly fits that bill. He has phenomenal arm strength that he has put on display when throwing to tight windows. He still has a ways to go in regards to NFL readiness, but at the collegiate level, he is a major threat to beat you with either his arm or his legs.
Benardrick McKinney, Linebacker (Mississippi State)
The “trained pigs” behind the defensive line seldom get much recognition, but McKinney is certainly deserving of such. McKinney is arguably the most talented linebacker in the conference and one of the best in the country. Despite the talent of LSU’s backfield, McKinney will not allow them to walk all over Mississippi State’s front.
Leonard Fournette, Running Back (LSU)
Fournette came into college football as the top ranked running back, and he has backed up such rank thus far. He is technically not starting yet, but in the carries he is allowed, his talent is evident. Fournette runs with an angry demeanor that translates to his leg drive. The opposing front as a whole may not be quite ready for what he can bring.
LSU’s Starting Cornerbacks (LSU)
Both Tre’Davious White and Jalen Collins are not seniors (sophomore and junior, respectively) and have flashed tremendous talent. The two make for an outstanding duo of boundary corners and will be able to keep MSU receivers on lockdown. Do not be surprised if either comes away with an interception despite Prescott’s talent at quarterback.
Mississippi State’s Offense vs LSU’s Defense
At first glance, LSU’s defense may seem shaky up front. That is true, but Mississippi State’s offensive line is suspect and their rushing attack is somewhat unproven. Thus, they will be dependent on throwing the ball and creating yards after the catch. Unfortunately, LSU’s corners will give those receivers a tough time, and is not even including the talented safety Jalen Mills who will be roaming the field. Mississippi State’s best hope is for Prescott to have a “Heisman performance” type game.
LSU’s Offense vs Mississippi State’s Defense
Simply put, LSU may be too athletic for Mississippi State to keep up with, including along the offensive line. Anthony Jennings, Fournette/Kenny Hilliard, and Travin Dural spearhead an offensive attack that can beat any team in a number of ways, and that is not to mention other skill players such as Terrence McGee and Malachi Dupre. With the line that LSU has, their skill players will be able to more easily work and take over the game.
Game Preview
Of course, in the SEC, no game is a “given,” and Mississippi State is a reputable team, but LSU has a clear advantage. They have more impressive athletes and will be able to dominate one side of the trench was with their offensive line. On the flip side, this is a very youthful LSU team. They may be prone to youthful mistakes against a more veteran Mississippi State. That being said, the LSU Tigers should be able to come out on top.
Implications
In the standings, the two teams are identical. Both are 3-0 and have yet to play in a conference game. With this matchup being the first SEC game for both, it may be a bit nerve racking. With a loss, they may be entirely set back from the start. Of course, they have a shot at recovering as the year goes on (especially LSU), but getting an early win always makes the rest of the year that much more comforting.
Final Prediction: LSU wins; LSU- 38 vs MSU- 21