LSU's Passing Attack Could Have Big Day Against Mississippi State's Struggling Defense

LSU quarterback Sam Leavitt could be in line for a big performance Saturday when the Tigers host Mississippi State in Tiger Stadium.

The Bulldogs enter the matchup ranked 125th nationally in pass defense, presenting a favorable opportunity for LSU's passing attack.

Mississippi State's defense, led by coordinator Zach Arnett, operates primarily out of a 3-3-5 scheme. The Bulldogs have also struggled to consistently pressure opposing quarterbacks and force turnovers this season.

Despite those struggles, Leavitt had plenty of praise for Mississippi State's defense when speaking to reporters earlier this week.

"I think they have an incredible front seven," Leavitt said. "They do a good job in the back end. I know the DC is a really good coach."

"They do a bunch of really good stuff and marry up things really well, play really hard and physical, and just have passion for the game."

Leavitt has completed more than 70 percent of his passes in each of his last three games, including a 25-of-34 performance for 275 yards and two touchdowns in last week's overtime loss to Kentucky.

Through six games, Leavitt has thrown for 1,496 yards and 10 touchdowns, but has also been intercepted eight times.

The LSU quarterback believes he's continuing to improve as the season progresses.

"I do think that I have been playing better football week in and week out," Leavitt said.

"You have to win the game with your preparation. You have to put in enough work to the point where you feel enough confidence in yourself to go in the game."

Protecting Leavitt and avoiding costly turnovers will be important for LSU as the Tigers look to bounce back from their second loss of the season.

No. 22 LSU (4-2) hosts No. 16 Mississippi State (4-2) on Saturday at 11 a.m. CT in Tiger Stadium. The game will be televised on ESPN.