LSU traveling to Oxford has all the ingredients of an SEC heavyweight fight. Lane Kiffin will try to create space, tempo and favorable matchups for Trinidad Chambliss, while LSU will attempt to turn the game into a physical battle.
Here are my keys to the game.
1. LSU Must Contain Trinidad Chambliss
Stopping Chambliss completely may be impossible, but LSU must prevent him from taking over the game. He is dangerous when the play breaks down because he can escape pressure, extend the possession and attack a defense with either his arm or his legs.
LSU’s defensive front must remain disciplined. Flying recklessly upfield will only open running lanes and allow Chambliss to create explosive plays outside the pocket.
Pressure him—but keep him contained.
2. Ole Miss Must Protect the Pocket
LSU will try to disrupt the timing of Lane Kiffin’s offense by getting pressure without having to blitz constantly. Ole Miss cannot allow its quarterback to spend the afternoon running for his life.
The Rebels’ offensive line must hold up against LSU’s defensive front, particularly on obvious passing downs. If Chambliss has time to work through his progressions, Ole Miss can stress every level of the LSU defense.
3. LSU Must Survive the Opening Barrage
Ole Miss will likely come out fast, use tempo and test LSU with formations and motion designed to create confusion. The Tigers cannot allow one early explosive play to become two or three.
LSU needs to communicate, tackle in space and avoid giving up cheap points during the scripted portion of the Ole Miss offense. If the Tigers can withstand the opening surge, the game could begin shifting in their direction.
4. Ole Miss Must Stay Balanced
Lane Kiffin cannot allow his offense to become completely dependent on Chambliss making plays. The Rebels need enough production from the running game to keep LSU’s defensive front honest.
Even if Ole Miss is not dominating on the ground, it must continue presenting the threat. Becoming one-dimensional against LSU would allow the Tigers to attack the quarterback and dictate the game.
5. LSU Must Finish Drives
Moving the football between the 20-yard lines will not be enough. LSU must turn scoring opportunities into touchdowns.
Settling for field goals against Ole Miss is dangerous because the Rebels can erase a three-point advantage with one explosive play. The Tigers need execution in the red zone and cannot afford penalties, sacks or questionable decisions that destroy promising drives.
6. Win the Turnover Battle
In a matchup this evenly contested, one turnover could determine the outcome. Chambliss must avoid forcing throws when LSU takes away his first option, and LSU cannot give Ole Miss short fields in front of what should be a hostile Oxford crowd.
The team that protects the football will have the clearest path to victory.
7. Control the Fourth Quarter
Ole Miss wants to play fast. LSU would benefit from making this a physical, four-quarter game.
If the Tigers can remain within striking distance entering the fourth quarter, their depth and physicality could become major factors. Ole Miss must maintain its pace, continue attacking and avoid becoming conservative with a lead.
Neither team can afford to take its foot off the gas.
Bottom Line
Ole Miss wants space, speed and explosive plays. LSU wants pressure, physicality and control.
The biggest question is whether LSU can contain Trinidad Chambliss without compromising its coverage. If the Tigers keep him in the pocket, eliminate explosive plays and finish drives, they can leave Oxford with a major road victory.
But if Chambliss escapes pressure and Lane Kiffin gets LSU’s defense chasing the game, Ole Miss will be extremely difficult to beat.
This one feels like it could come down to the final possession.
