Addition by Subtraction

Not since 2007 have I left a "body bag" game feeling so good about the Tigers.  LSU took care of business with crisp execution and smart play, no flopping around, no struggling with a clearly inferior opponent.  Versus McNeese last season, Jefferson finished with a QB rating of 91.  Last night, Lee went 9 for 10 with 133 yards and a TD.  Lee had a QB rating of 234.  Lights out!!  No way LSU is so efficient with Jefferson.

The past two weeks, the offense has shown a clear identity and solid productivity.  How many times over the last few seasons have we seen delay of game penalties? Last second time outs to avoid a delay of game? Substitution violations? LSU's QB looking lost?  None of that this season.  Lee is on his way to having a very good season.

Did Mettenberger look great?  I know it was Northwestern State, but good players come out and execute against inferior opponents.  I was really pleased that the staff allowed Mettenberger to throw the ball.  He finished 8 for 11 with 92 yards and 1 very nice TD pass to Kadrone Boone.

The defense was fantastic.  LSU held the Demons to -4 yards rushing and 95 yards of total offense.  LSU rotated guys in all night yet was suffocating throughout.

Next Week

Mississippi State lost a heart breaker Saturday at Auburn.  MSU's QB, Chris Relf, was stuffed at the 1 yard line as time ran out.  Now the Bulldogs must turn around on a short week and host LSU on Thursday night.  The Tigers were able to rest key players and get plenty of reps for some younger players.  Spencer Ware, who I expect to get 20 plus carries against MSU, only toted the ball 6 times against NWSU. 

This will be another big test for Lee.  Thursday will be his first true road game start since October 18, 2008 at South Carolina.  I think his confidence will continue to grow as the Tigers get victory number three this season.  Expect plenty of Ware and Ford and enough Lee to keep the chains moving.  LSU's defense will match up well against State.  The Bulldogs only managed 7 points against LSU last season.

LSU 33 - MSU17