As LSU prepares for its Outback Bowl matchup against Iowa Wednesday, some players’ stand out as being essential to LSU’s gameplan. Here is a list of players to watch for LSU on Wednesday:
1. Quarterback Anthony Jennings: After stepping in for senior quarterback Zach Mettenberger against Arkansas — and leading the Tigers on a 99-yard game-winning touchdown drive — Jennings will be the center of attention as he prepares for his first career start. An Iowa defense that has allowed only 182 passing yards per game this season will pose a challenge for the freshman.
2. Linebacker Lamin Barrow: In seven of Iowa’s eight victories this season, they have won the time of possession. The Hawkeyes can win that battle again if junior running back Mark Weisman or sophomore running back Jordan Canzeri can produce against a suspect LSU run defense. It will be up to Barrow and other players on LSU’s front seven to keep the Hawkeyes off the field.
3. Running back Jeremy Hill: Iowa has allowed a 100-yard rusher in only two games this season, and the Hawkeyes lost both contests. If Hill can wear down the Iowa defense it will go a long way in helping Jennings and the rest of the offense move the ball against the stout Iowa front seven.
4. Wide Receivers Jarvis Landry and Odell Beckham: As Jennings prepares for his first start, it will be up to these veteran receivers to make sure he feels comfortable in the pocket. This could be the final game for both Landry and Beckham, as both are projected as high NFL draft picks if they choose to leave LSU.
5. Defensive tackle Christian LaCouture: According to a report by nola.com’s Jim Kleinpeter, junior defensive tackle Ego Ferguson did not travel with the team to the game. Ferguson’s absence means Thomas will have to step in as a starter after receiving limited playing time this season. Freshman defensive tackle Christian LacCouture will also be forced into an expanded role. Kirk Ferentz teams are known for their offensive lines, and Thomas will have to be prepared if LSU wants to keep Iowa’s offense at bay.
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