The LSU football team will get its first taste of Southeastern Conference play on Saturday against a fast-paced Auburn team averaging 440 yards of offense and 31 points per game.
LSU struggled on offense in its 12-10 victory at Auburn in 2012. If both teams continue the trends set in their first three games, this season’s meeting may have a drastically different outcome.
“I know a lot of guys are excited, including myself and the coaching staff,” said LSU junior receiver Jarvis Landry. “We averaging around 60 plays right now. We want to get in the high-70s or 80s range. Hopefully, [Auburn] gives us the chance to get a few more play calls.”
Landry also said he looks forward to feeding off the energy of the crowd in Tiger Stadium.
“I remember the atmosphere down there in Auburn and the excitement and intensity that those guys brought,” Landry said. “This time, being in Baton Rouge, hopefully we get a chance to do the same thing and come out with a [win].”
Magee leads Tigers in rushing
Junior running back Terrence Magee has emerged as a more than legitimate rushing threat. His 212 yards and three touchdowns on 26 carries make him the Tigers’ leading rusher heading into SEC play.
Magee’s success came as no surprise to LSU coach Les Miles, who said the staff was just waiting for him to get his chance.
Miles called the Franklinton native a tough runner and gushed over his ability to read plays before they fully develop.
Magee said he is happy to have the opportunity to help his team. He credited his performance this season with the improvement of the offensive line and the diverse group of talented backs he plays with.
“We have a bunch of great backs, and at any moment, a guy can get in there and go to the house,” Magee said. “Just to be mentioned with [sophomore running back Jeremy Hill and senior running back Alfred Blue] is an honor.”
Offense good, but not perfect
LSU’s offense has made
tremendous strides since last season, but lost fumbles and penalties
continue to plague the Tigers.
The Tigers have lost a fumble in all of their games this season, all of which led to points for the opposing team.
Miles said these are mistakes that could cost his team if they continue to occur in conference play.
“We set a goal as an offense to have no turnovers,” Magee said. “Three weeks in a row we have failed to do that. There is always a big emphasis on that, but I am pretty sure there is going to be a lot more this week.”
“I remember the atmosphere down there in Auburn and the excitement and intensity that those guys brought. This time, being in Baton Rouge, hopefully we get a chance to do the same thing and come out with a [win].”