Can LSU Make It 2 In A Row at Texas A&M, Which Has Lost 2 Straight?
As the college football season heads into its final weeks, the LSU Tigers find themselves in a position to extend their winning streak against Texas A&M, a team that has been struggling in recent weeks. With both teams gearing up for a crucial matchup, the question on everyone’s mind is whether LSU can make it two wins in a row against the Aggies, who have dropped their last two games and are looking to rebound. In this article, we’ll take a deeper look at the current state of both teams, how LSU’s performance has set them up for success in this game, and what the Aggies need to do to snap their losing streak.
LSU’s Recent Form: A Team on the Rise
The LSU Tigers have been steadily improving as the season has progressed, with their recent victories giving them the momentum needed to close out the regular season strong. Under head coach Brian Kelly, LSU has transformed into a competitive force in the SEC. The Tigers have put together an impressive season, marked by several key wins, including a thrilling victory over Alabama. LSU’s ability to perform in high-pressure games has been one of their hallmarks this season, and they will need that same resilience when they travel to College Station to face Texas A&M.
At the core of LSU’s recent success is Jayden Daniels, the talented dual-threat quarterback who has become the focal point of their offense. Daniels has been exceptional this season, providing a dynamic threat both through the air and on the ground. He is a true playmaker who can make things happen when plays break down, and his ability to extend plays with his legs makes him a difficult quarterback to stop.
In LSU’s most recent victory, Daniels put on a clinic, throwing for over 300 yards and accounting for multiple touchdowns. He also showcased his ability to run when necessary, adding more yards and keeping the defense on its heels. The key for LSU in this matchup will be continuing to utilize Daniels’ strengths, particularly his mobility, to keep Texas A&M’s defense guessing and open up the playbook for offensive coordinator Mike Denbrock.
Along with Daniels, LSU has been getting solid performances from key skill players like Malik Nabers and Kyren Lacy at wide receiver. These playmakers have been instrumental in helping LSU maintain its offensive consistency throughout the season. Additionally, LSU’s offensive line has improved over the course of the year, which has been essential in providing Daniels with the time he needs to make plays.
On defense, LSU has shown the ability to lock down opponents, thanks in part to standouts like Harold Perkins, the team’s star linebacker. Perkins has been a force all season long, disrupting plays and creating havoc in the backfield. LSU’s defense will need to bring its A-game against Texas A&M, especially considering the Aggies’ struggles on offense in recent weeks.
Texas A&M’s Struggles: Can They Turn It Around?
On the other hand, Texas A&M has been in a slump, losing two straight games and showing a lack of consistency on both sides of the ball. While the Aggies have had flashes of brilliance this season, they have not been able to sustain that level of play for the entire game. In particular, Texas A&M’s offense has been underwhelming, with quarterback Max Johnson failing to consistently lead the team down the field and score points.
The Aggies’ offensive struggles have been compounded by a lack of a consistent running game. Texas A&M was hoping to rely on Amari Daniels and Le’Veon Moss to control the ground attack, but injuries and inconsistency have plagued the rushing game throughout the season. Without a reliable rushing attack to balance out the offense, the Aggies have become too one-dimensional, which has allowed opposing defenses to key in on the passing game and pressure Johnson in the pocket.
What Texas A&M needs to do to turn things around is to establish a more balanced offense. If they can’t get their running game going, they will struggle to put points on the board, especially against a defense as formidable as LSU’s. Johnson needs to be more accurate with his throws and take advantage of any opportunities for big plays downfield. Evan Stewart and Moose Muhammad have the potential to be game-changers at wide receiver, but it’s up to Johnson to connect with them consistently to stretch the field and create scoring opportunities.
In addition to their offensive issues, Texas A&M’s defense has been up and down this season. While the Aggies have some talented players on defense, including linebacker Edgerrin Cooper and defensive lineman Shemar Turner, they have been unable to stop the bleeding when it matters most. The Aggies allowed significant yardage and big plays in their losses, which ultimately cost them games.
Texas A&M’s defense will need to be at its best to slow down LSU’s high-powered offense. Keeping Daniels in check and avoiding giving up explosive plays will be crucial if the Aggies want to have any chance of pulling off an upset. The key for Texas A&M’s defense will be staying disciplined and forcing LSU to take the ball out of their playmaker’s hands.
Key Matchup: LSU’s Offense vs. Texas A&M’s Defense
One of the most intriguing aspects of this game is the matchup between LSU’s offense and Texas A&M’s defense. LSU’s offense has been one of the most efficient and explosive units in the SEC, and they will be facing a defense that has struggled to contain high-powered offenses in recent weeks.
As previously mentioned, LSU’s Jayden Daniels will be a key factor in this game. His ability to make plays both through the air and on the ground is what sets LSU apart from many other teams. However, Texas A&M’s defense will have to find a way to contain Daniels and force him into uncomfortable situations. If the Aggies can apply pressure on Daniels and prevent him from extending plays with his legs, they may be able to limit LSU’s offensive output.
The Aggies will also need to focus on stopping LSU’s running backs. Noah Cain has been productive for LSU this season, and his ability to gain tough yards on the ground could open up play-action opportunities for Daniels. If the Aggies can neutralize LSU’s rushing attack, it will force LSU to become more reliant on their passing game, which may play into Texas A&M’s hands.
On the flip side, LSU’s defense will be looking to take advantage of Texas A&M’s struggling offense. Harold Perkins will be key in disrupting the Aggies’ offensive rhythm, and he could be a difference-maker in this game if he’s able to pressure Max Johnson and force turnovers. If LSU’s defense can stifle the Aggies’ offense early on, it will be difficult for Texas A&M to recover, especially considering their recent struggles.
What LSU Needs to Do to Win
For LSU to make it two in a row at Texas A&M, they will need to execute on both sides of the ball. Offensively, they must continue to utilize the strengths of Jayden Daniels and their dynamic skill players. Daniels should continue to spread the ball around, utilizing the full arsenal of weapons at his disposal. If LSU can maintain a balanced offensive attack, it will be difficult for Texas A&M’s defense to contain them.
Defensively, LSU’s game plan should focus on pressuring Max Johnson and forcing him to make mistakes. LSU has been excellent at creating turnovers this season, and they’ll need to capitalize on any opportunities to take the ball away from the Aggies. Stopping the run will also be key for LSU, as it will force Johnson into predictable passing situations where the Tigers can apply pressure and get off the field.
Finally, LSU must remain disciplined and not allow Texas A&M to take advantage of any mental lapses or mistakes. The Tigers can’t afford to let the Aggies gain any momentum, especially at home in front of a rowdy crowd. If LSU can stay focused and execute their game plan, they should have a good chance of leaving College Station with a victory.
What Texas A&M Needs to Do to Win
For Texas A&M to snap their two-game losing streak and pull off an upset, they will need to significantly improve their performance on both sides of the ball. Offensively, the Aggies must find a way to establish a running game, which will help take the pressure off Max Johnson and open up the passing game. If Texas A&M can achieve balance on offense, it will give them a much better shot at keeping LSU’s defense off balance.
On defense, the Aggies need to stay disciplined and not let Jayden Daniels take control of the game. Applying pressure on Daniels and forcing him into tough situations will be critical. Additionally, the Aggies must avoid giving up big plays and keep LSU’s skill players in check.
In short, Texas A&M must play a near-perfect game to take down LSU. They will need to limit mistakes, control the clock, and play aggressive defense to have a chance at victory.
Conclusion
LSU enters this matchup as the favorite, thanks to their strong performances throughout the season and the struggles Texas A&M has faced in recent weeks. If LSU can continue to execute their game plan, they should be able to leave College Station with another victory and extend their winning streak against the Aggies. However, Texas A&M is a team that is desperate for a win, and if they can find a way to click on offense and play solid defense, they could make this game much closer than expected.
Ultimately, LSU’s balanced attack, led by Jayden Daniels and a stifling defense, should be enough to secure the win in this critical SEC showdown. However, with the stakes high and both teams hungry for a victory, fans can expect an exciting and hard-fought contest in College Station this weekend.
