Video by Troy Gaulden
Top-Ranked Tigers Score Largest-Ever Win Over Tennessee
Seth Lewis, Tiger TV
A year removed from a game both LSU and Tennessee fans will not soon forget, this year’s game between the Tigers and the Volunteers was the exact opposite, as LSU rolled on for a 38 to 7 victory over UT.
LSU faced a team for the second straight week that was going without their lead signal-caller, as Vols QB Tyler Bray was hurt last week against Georgia. This propelled backup QB Matt Simms to take center stage, a role he was familiar in against the Tigers, as he was the starter last year.
But this is a different Tigers squad from last year, and Simms was reminded of this all game long, going only six for 20 for 128 yards and two interceptions.
In fact, LSU only gave up 239 yards total to Tennessee, as the defense continues to prove it’s one of the best in the nation. The effort today could be chalked up to an inspired unit, as this was Defensive Coordinator John Chavis first time back in Knoxville, since leaving Tennessee for LSU in 2008 after being a coach with the Volunteers for 19 years.
On the other side of the ball, the Tigers offense was highlighted by the concerted effort to run the ball, gaining 260 yards on the ground, with RB Spencer Ware leading the effort with 80 yards rushing and a touchdown both rushing and receiving.
Another thing that became obvious today is that a two-quarterback system is something that LSU fans most likely will have to get used to for the rest of the season, as both Lee and Jefferson got ample snaps under center and were successful with their opportunities. Lee’s success came through the air, as he threw for a solid 10 for 14 with 115 yards and two touchdowns, while Jefferson’s contribution came on the ground with 73 yards and a touchdown.
With the victory, the Tigers stay undefeated at 7-0 and 4-0 in SEC play at about the halfway point for LSU. The 31 point margin also means that LSU has defeated everyone they’ve played this year by double-digits including the fifth time that has won by 25+.
When asked about if he was scared his team would hit a mid-season wall, LSU head coach Les Miles said that that wasn’t a real concern of his, adding that “I think this team wants to be a champion.”
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