The LSU Tigers return from the open week to a real test at home as they host the GameCocks of South Carolina. SC will be no easy match up and Brian Kelly will need to prove why he deserved to stay here in this one.
From third down efficacy, player props, team defense/offense numbers, team totals and more, we will have a little bit of everything as we roll on this season. What will this week bring?
Last season we ended with a negative record for the first time, but still ended up positive because of
some big swings we took odds wise (2022: 19-17, 2023: 19-17, 2024: 16-20) and we hope to do better this time around. We hope to continue the season strong. (6-9 in 2025)
Today, we take a look at predicting three specific areas for the team. Remember these are bold(ish) predictions. (All stats via CFBSTATS)
1 1HALF OVER 13.5 Points for LSU (-120, FanDuel)
Can we get two touchdowns in the first half? Why not. I will take this one as LSU will be as fresh as they have been since the beginning of the season. If not now, when? LSU definitely have the talent, and all we need is 14 first half points.
The important key here will be if Durham and Nussmeier are a full go. Which they should be after a dubious opening month or so.
2 LaNorris Sellers UNDER 184.5 Passing Yards
SC’s QB has not been a prolific passer this season, and LSU’s defense should make him work for it.
Hitting this will prove tricky, but I do believe LSU has the defensive players to make it happen. Add a more rested team and the bright spot for the team should shine here. It will still be a tricky one, but I like this to hit given his better games still have not produced gaudy passing yards.
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3 South Carolina +9.5 (-110, FanDuel)
The time for positivity may be over. This might be a pivotal match up in the Brian Kelly era. As such, LSU has proven no capacity to really extend leads and as such I have to roll with a close game that gives us an LSU win, but a SC cover. A thread the needle pick, yes, but one I oddly feel really good about.
Most of that is not knowing the health of our Quarterback and skill players. Will the bye week prove to be tremendous for the health of this squad? I still have my doubts so give me a close win. LSU is win less ATS (0-2) as an 8.5-point favorite or greater this year, so this match up does give me the vibe that that will change.
Final score prediction: LSU 31-27 South Carolina
