LSU’s Passing Game Will be Key in SEC Showdown at Florida

LSU showed a great level of hospitality to the supporters and fans of the University of South Carolina in what was an emotional game for the Gamecocks. On the field, however, the Tigers took care of business as they defeated the Gamecocks, 45-24 to remain perfect on the season and earn their six consecutive win against Steve Spurrier’s team.

LSU (5-0) won the game but the Tigers used another element other than the running game to get the victory, a productive passing game.

Oct 10, 2015; Baton Rouge, LA, USA; LSU Tigers quarterback Brandon Harris (6) throws during pregame of a game against the South Carolina Gamecocks at Tiger Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Derick E. Hingle-USA TODAY Sports

Sophomore quarterback Brandon Harris found a rhythm in the passing game, throwing for a career-best 228 yards and two touchdowns. His longest pass went for 62 yards in the Tigers’ victory.

While Heisman candidate and sophomore running back Leonard Fournette still rushed for 158 yards on 20 carries, 87 of those yards came from his 87-yard touchdown run in the beginning of the third quarter against the Gamecocks.

LSU picked a perfect time to put together an offense that consist of a passing threat to the running game.

Next week, the Tigers face a tough, undefeated Florida Gator team at home, in what promises to be an early “SEC Showdown”. In essence, the Tigers will deal with a midseason “midterm” before their “final exams” in the month of November.

The Gators crushed Ole Miss 38-10 and head coach Jim McElwain will look to upset the Tigers in a critical time of the season.

On defense, Florida leads the SEC with six fumble recoveries, fifth in interceptions with five and second in sacks with 18.

Florida ranks second in rush defense, ninth in pass defense and fifth in total defense.

Not to mention, the Gators have beat three SEC teams in Kentucky, Tennessee and Ole Miss.

As midterms roll around for colleges and universities across the nation, LSU will face its midterm next Saturday against Florida.

Oct 3, 2015; Gainesville, FL, USA; Mississippi Rebels quarterback Chad Kelly (10) throws the ball as Florida Gators defensive lineman Jonathan Bullard (90) pressures during the first half at Ben Hill Griffin Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports

It will be important for Brandon Harris and the Tigers to replicate this passing attack, along with a stellar rushing attack, to beat the Gators.

Florida will look to slow down Fournette along with Derrius Guice and Darrel Williams who make up the Tigers rushing attack.

If the offensive line allows Brandon Harris time to make plays, in combination with Fournette as the anchor for the Tigers on offense, LSU should get the victory against Florida in what should be a very interesting midseason SEC East vs. SEC West matchup.

It will be a true test for the Tigers to prepare for their “final exams” in the month of November when they play Alabama, Arkansas, Ole Miss and Texas A&M……