LSU Tigers vs Florida Gators Picks and Predictions
It’s a classic SEC clash in Baton Rouge as the LSU Tigers host the Florida Gators on Saturday night. LSU has stormed into the top 3 of the AP poll after a gritty win over Clemson, while Florida is looking to bounce back after an upset loss to South Florida dropped them out of the rankings.
LSU: Elite Defense, But Offense Needs Rhythm
The Tigers impressed in Week 1, knocking off then-No. 4 Clemson 17-10, but their follow-up 23-7 win against Louisiana Tech left fans wanting more.
Coach Brian Kelly admitted the performance was below standard, especially in the run game. LSU managed just 3.8 yards per carry and went 2-for-5 in red zone trips, settling for field goals too often.
LSU Early Season Breakdown
Category | Stat | Key Note |
---|---|---|
Points Allowed | 17 total | 2 games, elite defense |
Rushing Avg. | 3.8 YPC | Needs improvement |
Red Zone TD % | 40% | 2 TDs on 5 trips |
Top Rusher | Caden Durham (3.4 YPC) | Yet to break out |
Defensively, LSU has been lights-out, holding opponents to just 17 total points and keeping Louisiana Tech scoreless until late in the 4th quarter.
Florida: Searching for Consistency
The Gators opened strong with a 55-0 demolition of Long Island but stumbled badly last week, losing 18-16 at home to South Florida. That loss reignited questions about head coach Billy Napier’s ability to stabilize the program.
Quarterback DJ Lagway’s raw arm talent has drawn praise from Kelly, but he’s still finding rhythm after missing much of camp with a calf injury. Florida’s offensive inconsistency mirrors last season, when they started slow before rallying late.
Florida’s Early Season Snapshot
Category | Stat | Key Note |
---|---|---|
Record | 1-1 | Upset loss vs USF |
Offensive High | 55 pts vs LIU | Explosive opener |
Defensive Strength | Held LSU to 16 pts last year | Beat Tigers 27-16 |
QB DJ Lagway | Elite arm, rusty start | Calf strain recovery |
Napier stressed the need for maturity in bouncing back: “It’s all about how you respond to it… Do we have the maturity to turn it around?”
History and Rivalry
Florida got the better of LSU last season in Gainesville, winning 27-16 and handing Kelly one of the lowest points of his tenure. That game sparked a 4-0 closing stretch for the Gators.
But now, the tables have turned: LSU is in the playoff conversation, while Florida is trying to prove they still belong in the SEC’s upper tier.
Picks and Predictions
This game looks like a defensive battle. LSU’s elite defense will make it tough for Florida to find explosive plays, while the Tigers’ offense still has red zone issues.
- LSU should lean on defense and special teams to control the game.
- Florida’s chance rests on Lagway finding rhythm early and avoiding turnovers.
Latest betting lines can be found at college football odds, with more expert picks at ScoresAndStats NCAAF Picks. For betting insights beyond NCAAF, check the NFL Expert Guide.