The LSU Tigers (17-0, 2-0 SEC) will travel to Knoxville, Tennessee, to face the Tennessee Volunteers (13-1, 1-1 SEC) on Thursday at 6:30 p.m. EST. Both teams are looking to continue their impressive runs early in the 2025 SEC season, and this game promises to be a clash of two high-powered teams with championship aspirations.
LSU Tigers’ Perfect Start
LSU enters this game with an undefeated record of 17-0, riding high on their dominance both in and out of conference. The Tigers have proven to be a balanced and efficient team, with notable contributions coming from various players throughout the season. Their strong start is a testament to their talent and ability to rise to the occasion, especially in SEC games where the competition is always fierce.
One of the key players for LSU has been Flau’jae Johnson, who has been performing at an elite level. Averaging 19.7 points, 6.1 rebounds, and 1.6 steals per game, Johnson has been a force for the Tigers on both ends of the court. Her ability to score efficiently and contribute in multiple areas makes her a constant threat for opposing teams. Johnson’s impact has been crucial to LSU’s success, and she will be looking to continue her strong play as they take on the Volunteers.
LSU has been solid defensively and has a formidable offense to match. They are 2-0 in SEC play, and their ability to win tight games—such as their 1-0 record in games decided by 3 points or fewer—speaks to their resilience and depth. The Tigers are averaging 5.0 made 3-pointers per game, a key statistic that will play an important role against Tennessee’s defense. LSU has been able to outpace their opponents with efficient shooting, and their ability to stretch the floor will be crucial as they face the Volunteers’ defensive schemes.
Tennessee Volunteers’ Strengths
Tennessee, while coming off a narrow 87-86 loss to the Oklahoma Sooners, is still a formidable force in the SEC. With a record of 13-1 overall and 1-1 in conference play, the Volunteers have proven their worth as one of the best teams in the league. Their solid start to the season includes a strong 8-1 home record, and they will be looking to protect their home court against a talented LSU squad.
Tennessee’s rebounding has been a major strength, as the Volunteers rank third in the SEC with an average of 39.6 rebounds per game. Talaysia Cooper has been one of the standout players for Tennessee, contributing an average of 5.6 boards per game. Her ability to dominate the glass will be crucial in this matchup against an LSU team that can score in a variety of ways. If Tennessee can control the boards, they may be able to limit LSU’s second-chance opportunities and dictate the tempo of the game.
Cooper has also been a key player offensively, shooting 51.7% from the field and averaging 17.8 points per game. Her efficient scoring and rebounding make her a double-threat for the Volunteers, and she will need to play a leading role if Tennessee hopes to take down the undefeated Tigers. In addition to Cooper, the Volunteers have several other key contributors who will need to step up in this high-stakes SEC showdown.
One of Tennessee’s major advantages comes from beyond the arc. The Volunteers average 12.1 made 3-pointers per game, which is 5.5 more than the 6.6 per game LSU allows. Tennessee’s ability to shoot the three-ball with consistency gives them an edge in this matchup, especially since LSU is giving up a notable number of three-pointers. If Tennessee can continue their hot shooting from deep, it could open up driving lanes and create mismatches on offense.
Key Matchup: Inside vs. Outside
One of the most intriguing storylines of this game will be the battle between Tennessee’s rebounding and inside presence against LSU’s perimeter shooting and scoring depth. While Tennessee has dominated the boards, LSU has showcased an ability to score from multiple areas, including the 3-point line. The battle of the boards will likely have a significant impact on the game, with Tennessee looking to control the paint and limit LSU’s opportunities for second-chance points.
Tennessee’s defense will also be tested by LSU’s versatile offense, especially the high-scoring duo of Flau’jae Johnson and the Tigers’ other offensive weapons. LSU has been scoring efficiently, but Tennessee’s defensive strategy and their ability to close out on shooters could make things challenging for the Tigers. If the Volunteers can limit LSU’s 3-point shooting and control tempo, they will increase their chances of securing a victory.
What to Expect
This SEC matchup has all the makings of an exciting and hard-fought battle. LSU’s undefeated record speaks to their talent and depth, while Tennessee will be eager to defend their home court and bounce back from their loss to Oklahoma. The Volunteers’ rebounding and perimeter shooting make them a dangerous opponent, but LSU’s balance and star power could prove to be the difference.
For LSU, continuing their strong play on both sides of the ball will be crucial. Their ability to execute on offense, especially in their 3-point shooting, could give them the edge against a Tennessee defense that will aim to slow them down. Additionally, Flau’jae Johnson’s leadership and scoring ability will be critical to LSU’s success.
Tennessee, on the other hand, will need to take advantage of their rebounding prowess and control the glass to limit LSU’s offensive opportunities. With Talaysia Cooper leading the charge, Tennessee will also need to make sure they are efficient on offense, especially from beyond the arc, to exploit LSU’s defensive vulnerabilities.
Top Performers
Flau’jae Johnson (LSU): The star guard for the Tigers is averaging 19.7 points, 6.1 rebounds, and 1.6 steals per game. Her all-around game makes her one of the top players in the SEC, and she will be crucial in leading LSU to a victory.
Talaysia Cooper (Tennessee): Cooper has been one of the standout players for the Volunteers, shooting 51.7% from the field and averaging 17.8 points per game. Her rebounding ability (5.6 rebounds per game) and offensive efficiency make her a key player in this matchup.
Conclusion
As both teams continue to strive for SEC supremacy, this game between LSU and Tennessee will be pivotal in setting the tone for the rest of the season. LSU comes in as the undefeated team, while Tennessee aims to rebound from their loss and protect their home court. With talented players like Flau’jae Johnson and Talaysia Cooper on both sides, this game promises to deliver plenty of excitement, with both teams bringing different strengths to the floor. The battle between LSU’s perimeter offense and Tennessee’s rebounding and defense will ultimately decide who comes out on top in this Thursday night showdown.
