Aren't LSU and Wisconsin eerily similar teams?

And, btw, doesn't that bode well for LSU?


I don't know a ton about Wisconsin. I've read more about them in the last couple of weeks than I likely have in the last 20 years, and in doing a little research and reading on them, they remind me of LSU in alot of ways - especially this particular year. I'd love to get the the Rant's take on this, as if this comparison is correct, it does not bode well for Chucky.

Both teams seem to tout their offensive line as the strength of the team. Both teams have proven running backs, and would also consider their running backs as a respective team strength. Both teams lost a ton on defense last year, and will be replacing key components thereof.

Y'all think that's the truth? Are both teams planning to rely on experienced offensive lines and running backs to pound out a ground attack that will impose their offensive will on the other team's defense?

If what I read is true, Wisconsin lost every single starting defensive lineman and linebacker. The entire front 7. Likewise, LSU lost a wealth of talent, experience, and ability on their own defensive front 7.

Even historically, these teams are pretty similar in that given the choice, their offenses will never be confused with Texas Tech or Oregon. Both teams would rather play big and powerful as opposed to fast and finesse filled. Y'all agree with that?

If those things are true, I cannot see how Wisconsin can win this game, save a huge difference in turnovers. It LOOKS like both teams are a "we are what we are" type team. We're going to run the ball, only throw it to set up that run, and play solid defense. Historically (say recent 5 years), there's been exactly one team that possesses the athletes to beat LSU in an LSU style game. That's Alabama. I've admitted that I don't know a ton about Wisconsin. I do know that they are not as good as Alabama.

Wisconsin fans think that LSU fans are cocky. I'd submit that NOTHING could be more reflective of a cocky attitude than a Wisconsin team thinking that they could line up against LSU, man to man, and whip them at their own game. I don't think that will happen.

Because these teams will play a similarly run oriented, nothing flashy offensive game, this game will be close early. By the middle of the 3rd quarter, LSU's superior athletic ability and depth will begin to take over. By the end of the 3rd, LSU has a double digit lead, or is about to take one. By the end of the game, LSU is able to just about what it wants to do in terms of the running game.

Game is 17-17 at half, Chief makes adjustments, Wisconsin never seriously threatens again, 30 - 17 early in the fourth, finishes 33-20. LSU backs combine for 258 on the ground. Jennings is 7 for 11 for 142, but that includes a 65 yard run after a 5 yard catch by #18. Harris is 3 for 4 for 50, and another 40 on the ground.