BYUcoonass

First off, some background. I've been a tiger fan my entire life. Graduated from LSU in '02. Watched every LSU game for as long as I can remember either at the Stadium or at my grandparents with the rest of our family.

However I've also watched BYU for as long as I can remember. We are not Mormon but both of my parents competed colegiately for BYU back in the 70's. And it was a group of about 15 Mormons who came and mucked out my entire street after Katrina, so I have a warm spot for them.

Anyway, I'm probably one of the few people in America who follows LSU and BYU football, so thought I'd be worth it to share a few thoughts on BYU for those on this board.

1. BYU won't roll over. Their talent isn't close to LSU's but LSU needs to get up early and keep the foot on the throat. If not, BYU will hang around and find a way to make it interesting. The BYU qb (Mangum) is essentially a Hail Mary specialist, so if it comes down to one possession at the end of the game, BYU probably won't feel nervous.

2. That being said, BYU's offense is overall a disappointment. Above average offensive line, but no RB's or WR's that would even threaten for playing time in any power 5 conference. They have a freshman tight end (Bushman) who will be really good, and he might be able to do some things against LSU linebackers. But he's not a game changer. They are trying a running back by committee thing, but none of their backs are remarkable in any way.

3. BYU's qb was very highly touted coming out of high school (he out-dueled Jameis Winston in elite 11 to give you an idea of how long ago that was) but I am here to tel you he is nothing to worry about. His reads are slow, he's never seen speed like the LSU secondary. He will get greedy and force things. He's not very mobile. Overall last week vs Portland State he just looked uncomfortable and timid. An FCS team had him rattled, so unless he has some kind of awakening between last Saturday and tomorrow, I think he's good for 2-3 interceptions and maybe 100 yards passing. I'll be surprised if LSU doesn't have at least 6 sacks.

4. Defensively, BYU should not be overlooked. They have a very tough and deep defensive line, and an athletic group of linebackers. Secondary isn't SEC quality but athletic enough. BYU doesn't beat teams with athleticism and talent, they assignment-sound football, try to win the turnover battle, and they are tough.

BYU's D is pretty experienced and good enough to take advantage of LSU's mistakes. I don't think BYU stays in the game without creating several turnovers and maybe even scoring on defense.

Anyway, as a fan of both schools I want it to be a good game, but last week BYU didn't show enough for me to think they'll be able to keep it close.

I'll be at the game in full LSU gear, but if you're mingling around before the game, strike up a conversation with the BYU folks. They are more normal than youd think, but I like to offer them some beer just to watch what they do!

LSU 34 BYU 10