How does LSU matchup with USC in every phase of the game?

TAMPA, FLORIDA – JANUARY 01: Garrett Nussmeier #13 of the LSU Tigers passes during the ReliaQuest Bowl against the Wisconsin Badgers at Raymond James Stadium on January 01, 2024 in Tampa, Florida. (Photo by Mike Ehrmann/Getty Images)

The wait is over. On Sunday night, LSU will kick off its 2024 campaign against USC in Las Vegas.

This is a new LSU. The Tigers lost three first-round draft picks on offense, including Heisman-winning QB [autotag]Jayden Daniels[/autotag]. On defense, LSU cleaned house and hired a whole new defensive staff.

But there’s continuity at some spots too, including an offensive line that returns four starters. At QB, [autotag]Garrett Nussmeier[/autotag] takes over the QB1 reigns for the first time, but he’s no stranger to LSU fans after seeing spurts of action the last three years.

Despite the new defensive staff, LSU managed to return the bulk of its defensive production, including star linebacker [autotag]Harold Perkins Jr.[/autotag]

As [autotag]Brian Kelly[/autotag] enters Year 3, his program is firmly in place. There’s a belief this is his most player-led team yet. That confidence has been evident throughout the offseason, but Sunday night will tell us a lot about this team.

Here’s how LSU matches up with USC in every phase of the game.

When LSU is throwing the ball

Again, Nussmeier is no secret. He played as a true freshman in 2021, a little more in 2022 and got the start for LSU in the bowl game last year.

This is his first real test in a game that matters. Nussmeier is working with a receiver group new to their roles too, but there’s little concern about LSU’s pass-catching talent.

Nussmeier’s best trait is the ability to see the field and get the ball out. He doesn’t possess the rushing threat of Daniels, but LSU’s sacks allowed will improve with Nussmeier’s quick trigger.

It helps to be playing…

Source link : https://sports.yahoo.com/does-lsu-matchup-usc-every-165309324.html

Author : LSU Tigers Wire

Publish date : 2024-08-29 16:53:09

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