LSU (9-3) 63, Auburn (7-7) 68 Recap

The Auburn Tigers (7-7) defeated the LSU Tigers (9-3) on Wednesday night by a final score of 68-63 before a rowdy Auburn crowd. After falling behind early, LSU went into halftime with a 1 point lead. LSU came out in the second half looking to extend the lead until Johnny O'Bryant picked up his 3rd foul. With Johnny O'Bryant out, Auburn capitalized and went on a run to go ahead. LSU was never able to shoot themselves back into the game. They ended up shooting 13 more shots from the floor, but 12 less free throws.

LSU was 9 of 27 from three point land for 33% and a meager 4 of 10 from the free throw line. LSU outrebounded Auburn 40 to 38 and both teams had 15 assists and 12 turnovers. LSU scored 32 to Auburn's 26 in the paint, 13 to Auburn's 8 off turnovers, and 15 2nd chance points to Auburn's 6. None of it was enough.



Auburn won the SoS by 10.9 on a night where LSU struggled from the field. Andrew Del Piero had 4 points, 6 rebounds, and 2 blocks in 13 minutes. He also had his first career assist. Charles Carmouche continued a great run of highly efficient games with his 15 points, 6 rebounds, 7 assists in 32 minutes of action. Coleman had a disappointing SEC opener scoring only 4 points with 3 assists and 3 turnovers. His 9 rebounds did lead the team.

LSU continued a pattern of taking more three pointers on the road. In LSU's four road games they have shot 29, 28, 27, and 26 three pointers. In home games the Tigers are averaging just under 20 three point shots per game. They haven't shot more than 25 at home. In those road games LSU is shooting just 33.6% while they are shooting 37.7% at home.

While LSU was able to outscore Auburn in the paint, it was done inefficiently. LSU was held to 40% shooting from 2 point range, their lowest average of the season. Johnny O'Bryant was successful a few times with post moves, but LSU was never able to get continued success down low. A major concern is the lack of fouls LSU is forcing. LSU was only able to get to the line for 10 shots (made 4). The 40% from the free throw line was the teams lowest average since opening night where they hit 7 of 20 for 35%.

With all the shooting woes, LSU was still able to keep it close. LSU got plenty of shots and just didn't hit enough. Without a major scoring threat down low, LSU will need to hit shots and free throws. The Tigers weren't able to on this night, but they showed the ability to take care of the ball (2nd lowest turnovers this season), and were able to record 15 assists on only 25 baskets.

Season Prediction:
17-12, NIT