By : Ethan Horner
(Photo/Stephen R. Sylvanie-USA TODAY Sports)
The LSU Tigers, ranked #18 in the nation, are looking to bounce back after a tough loss to USC. The Tigers have a rich history, known for their tenacity, strong recruiting classes, and explosive offenses. Their current roster reflects this tradition, but they will need to sharpen several aspects of their game to get back into the playoff conversation.
Garrett Nussmeier: Stepping Up at QB
Garrett Nussmeier, LSU’s starting quarterback, has significant potential to lead the Tigers to a successful season. A talented passer with great arm strength and a quick release, Nussmeier offers LSU a dynamic option under center. His ability to extend plays with his legs and throw accurately on the run adds versatility to the Tigers’ offensive scheme.
However, the game against USC exposed some areas where he needs to develop further, especially under pressure. USC’s defense disrupted LSU’s rhythm, forcing Nussmeier into tough situations where decision-making became paramount. His tendency to force passes into tight windows contributed to turnovers and stalled drives. Cleaning up these errors and improving his decision-making will be crucial for Nussmeier as the season progresses. However, he showed flashes of brilliance with deep throws and crisp reads in intermediate routes, demonstrating his upside when given time to operate.
Offensive Adjustments: O-Line and Play Calling
One of LSU’s primary issues in the loss was the performance of the offensive line. USC's defensive front constantly pressured Nussmeier, disrupting both the passing game and the Tigers' ability to establish a running game. LSU’s offensive coordinator will need to adjust the play-calling to account for this by incorporating more quick passes, screen plays, and rollouts to get Nussmeier in space and avoid a collapsing pocket.
The run game also needs a stronger identity. LSU has a stable of talented running backs but has struggled to consistently open up rushing lanes. Establishing the run will be vital not just for balance, but to take pressure off Nussmeier and give him more manageable third downs. Incorporating more designed QB runs could also leverage Nussmeier’s mobility to keep defenses on their heels.
Wide Receiver Corps: Playmakers to Lean On
LSU’s strength lies in its wide receiver corps. Kyren Lacy, and Zavion Thomas provide Nussmeier with playmakers who can stretch the field and make contested catches. Thomas, in particular, is a vertical threat capable of making big plays, but LSU needs to get him involved earlier in games. They should look to get the ball out quickly to these receivers on slants, screens, and intermediate routes to exploit their speed and yards-after-catch potential.
Defensive Adjustments
LSU’s defense, traditionally a hallmark of the program, struggled against USC’s dynamic offense. Missed tackles, blown assignments in the secondary, and the inability to get consistent pressure on the quarterback allowed USC to exploit the Tigers' defense. Fixing these issues will require better discipline, communication, and execution. LSU needs to focus on generating more consistent pressure from their front seven, which would help alleviate stress on the secondary and prevent opposing quarterbacks from picking apart the defense.
How LSU Can Bounce Back
- Re-establish Offensive Balance: LSU must find a better balance between the run and pass to keep defenses honest. A more consistent ground game will open up play-action opportunities for Nussmeier.
- Improved Decision-Making for Nussmeier: Garrett Nussmeier has the tools to be one of the top QBs in the SEC, but he must avoid forcing the ball into risky situations. A focus on ball security, especially in high-pressure moments, will be key.
- Shore Up the O-Line: LSU's offensive line must improve in pass protection and run blocking. Offensive schemes that prioritize quick throws and misdirection can help mitigate these weaknesses.
- Defensive Clean-Up: Tackling fundamentals, improved communication in the secondary, and generating more pressure on opposing QBs are critical areas the Tigers need to address.
- Stay Mentally Tough: LSU has the talent to compete in the SEC, but they will need mental resilience to bounce back from the USC loss. Building confidence with a dominant performance in their next few games is essential.
Looking Ahead
Despite the setback, LSU still has a path forward. The talent on their roster, especially at key skill positions, makes them a team no one should overlook. If Garrett Nussmeier can learn from his mistakes and the Tigers make the necessary adjustments on both sides of the ball, they can still contend for a strong season in the SEC. Every game moving forward will be a test of how quickly they can rebound and refocus their efforts on execution and consistency.