CBS Sports Writers Predict Winner Of LSU-Mississippi State Matchup

CBS Sports writers Chris Hummer and Brad Crawford have made their predictions for Saturday's LSU-Mississippi State matchup in Baton Rouge.

Both analysts pick Lane Kiffin's Tigers to bounce back from last week's overtime loss to Kentucky by beating the Bulldogs and covering the point spread.

Here's what both writers had to say about the matchup:

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No. 16 Mississippi State at No. 22 LSU (-10.5)

Chris Hummer (LSU -10.5): This game sets up for a LSU bounce back. Even if Kamario Taylor were healthy -- and his status is in doubt this week -- the Tigers have a lot of advantages in this game, including an elite secondary and pass rush. The big question for LSU is whether Sam Leavitt can avoid turnovers. If he plays clean, which has been a problem all year given that he leads the nation in INTs, LSU should roll. … LSU 38, Mississippi State 24.

Brad Crawford (LSU -10.5): Is this the week LSU finally puts it together against an opponent of substance? It is time the Tigers look the part as a potential CFP team after two SEC losses already. A third ends any hope of getting to the 12-team bracket, even if LSU wins out from there and finishes 9-3. The resume simply won't be good enough to warrant enough attention. I'm giving this the must-win label for Lane Kiffin, whose first season is teetering on total disappointment if he's handed a third loss before playing Alabama in November. ... LSU 37, Mississippi State 20.

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LSU and Mississippi State will kick off at 11 a.m. CT on Saturday at Tiger Stadium in Baton Rouge. The game will be televised on ESPN.