LSU Tigers vs. Baylor Bears: 2024 Texas Bowl Preview
The 2024 Texas Bowl promises an exciting showdown between the LSU Tigers and the Baylor Bears, with both teams aiming to secure their ninth win of the season. This contest will be played at NRG Stadium in Houston, Texas, on Tuesday, December 31, at 2:30 PM CT, and will be broadcast on ESPN. Both teams enter this bowl game with a lot to prove, and it’s expected to be a thrilling encounter between two programs with rich traditions and high expectations.
LSU Tigers: Riding Momentum into the Texas Bowl
The LSU Tigers, under head coach Brian Kelly, finished the regular season with an 8-4 record, with their season marked by ups and downs. However, they are entering the Texas Bowl on a positive note, having won their final two regular-season games in commanding fashion. LSU secured victories over Vanderbilt and Oklahoma at home, providing the team with a boost of confidence heading into the bowl season.
One of the key players to watch in this game is Garrett Nussmeier, LSU’s starting quarterback. Nussmeier, who recently declared his intention to return to LSU in 2025, has had a standout season. In his first year as a starting quarterback, Nussmeier threw for 3,739 yards, 26 touchdowns, and 11 interceptions, setting a new record for the most passing yards and touchdowns by any first-year starting quarterback in LSU history. His leadership and playmaking ability have been pivotal to LSU’s offensive success this season.
Brian Kelly has been pleased with the development of his team throughout the year. Speaking about the upcoming bowl game, Kelly said, “We will have a very competitive football team that will go out and represent LSU in a manner that we expect. They are excited. When you have great morale, you have guys that are committed and will play hard for LSU. You want a team that will go out and compete their tail off, and this team will.”
Nussmeier’s leadership on and off the field will be crucial in LSU’s efforts to take down a formidable Baylor squad. In addition to Nussmeier, LSU has talent all around the field. Kayshon Boutte, a star wide receiver, has the potential to be a game-changer in the passing game, while the Tigers’ defense, led by head coach Kelly, is known for its physicality and aggressive play.
Baylor Bears: A Strong Finish to the Regular Season
The Baylor Bears have had an impressive season under head coach Dave Aranda, finishing with an 8-4 record after a 2-4 start. This late-season surge was built on a six-game winning streak, which propelled them to a bowl game and gave them a chance to compete in the Texas Bowl. Baylor is a team that plays tough, disciplined football, and they will rely on that approach against LSU in what promises to be a high-stakes contest.
Baylor’s offense is led by Sawyer Robertson, a quarterback who has blossomed in his second season with the team. Robertson has thrown for 2,626 yards, with 26 touchdowns and seven interceptions. His ability to make plays with both his arm and his legs has made him a dynamic presence in Baylor’s offense. Robertson’s development this season has been remarkable, and he will need to continue his solid play in the Texas Bowl if Baylor is to succeed.
In addition to Robertson, Baylor has a strong supporting cast on offense. RJ Sneed and Monaray Baldwin have been key targets in the passing game, while Craig Williams and Tayven Jackson have contributed in the running game. Dave Aranda, who also has experience as a former defensive coordinator at LSU, will look to bring a balanced game plan to the bowl matchup and exploit LSU’s defensive weaknesses.
Baylor’s defense, while not as dominant as LSU’s, has been solid throughout the season. Aranda’s expertise in defensive schemes will be crucial as he works to slow down LSU’s high-powered offense. The Bears will look to disrupt Nussmeier’s rhythm and take advantage of any mistakes made by the LSU offense.
Key Players to Watch
- Garrett Nussmeier (LSU) – As the starting quarterback, Nussmeier is the heart of LSU’s offense. His ability to read defenses and make accurate throws will be key to LSU’s success. If he gets going early, it could be a long day for Baylor’s defense.
- Kayshon Boutte (LSU) – Boutte is one of the best wide receivers in the country and a potential first-round NFL draft pick. He can stretch the field and create mismatches for opposing defenses. Look for him to be a focal point in LSU’s passing game.
- Sawyer Robertson (Baylor) – Robertson will need to continue his excellent play for Baylor to have a chance in this matchup. His dual-threat ability to make plays with both his arm and his legs will be crucial for the Bears to stay competitive.
- Craig Williams (Baylor) – Williams is one of Baylor’s top running backs, and his ability to control the clock and keep LSU’s offense off the field will be critical. Baylor will need to establish the run early to take some pressure off Robertson and keep the game close.
- BJ Ojulari (LSU) – LSU’s defense is led by standout pass rusher BJ Ojulari, who can disrupt the quarterback and create chaos in the backfield. Ojulari will be tasked with getting pressure on Robertson and forcing him into mistakes.
- Jayden Hill (LSU) – A strong cornerback who will play a key role in covering Baylor’s wide receivers. Hill’s ability to shut down passing lanes will be important in slowing down Baylor’s passing game.
Betting Lines and Predictions
Heading into the game, the LSU Tigers are favored, with a -4 spread and a -190 moneyline. The Baylor Bears, underdogs in this contest, have a +160 moneyline. The over/under is set at 60.5 points, indicating that the game could be high-scoring, given the offensive firepower of both teams.
Predictions for the Texas Bowl
Experts have varied opinions on the outcome of this game. USA TODAY and BetMGM predict LSU will win, citing their more talented roster and the dynamic play of Garrett Nussmeier. LSU’s recent wins and superior depth make them the favorites in this matchup, though Baylor has the capability to pull off an upset, especially given their momentum and ability to compete at a high level.
ESPN’s Adam Rittenberg sees Baylor as a potential upset pick, pointing to coach Dave Aranda’s ability to prepare his team and adjust to LSU’s strengths. While LSU’s offense is potent, Baylor’s defense and balanced offensive attack could give them an edge in a close, high-scoring game.
How to Watch
- Date and Time: Tuesday, December 31, 2024, at 2:30 PM CT
- Venue: NRG Stadium, Houston, Texas
- TV Channel: ESPN
- Stream: FuboTV
Final Thoughts
The 2024 Texas Bowl between LSU and Baylor will feature two talented teams that have had impressive seasons despite facing challenges. LSU is favored due to their high-powered offense and strong individual playmakers, but Baylor has proven their resilience and could very well pull off the upset if they continue their strong play from the end of the regular season. With a dynamic quarterback on each side and plenty of firepower in the trenches, this game promises to be a thrilling way to ring in the new year.
