Prowler's Hit Parade: Coach O is 1-O

The final score was 27-0 and the game really wasn't that close. Going in I expected another sloppy opening performance as we have seen the last few years. But I was pleasantly surprised to see LSU come in and dominate on defense early as the offense found its footing. A few observations:

* Danny Etling was excellent. He made all the throws the coaches asked and was very efficient with the ball. Let's see if he can do it when more pressure is applied.

*Guice was solid but BYU had him contained most of the night. I'm expecting bigger games and a better per carry average (4.4 yards) as we move forward.

*Red zone offense must get better. The Tigers were a little bland with goal to go situations.

*I know some fans complained about the play calling on offense. I would suggest they remain patient and let the offense evolve. LSU is still a power running team that will use play action. Let's revisit the issue after the Tigers visit Florida on October 7.

*Considering how many freshman played on defense, this was a tremendous performance. I know BYU is limited, but LSU was suffocating all game.

*Look for freshmen to continue to get meaningful snaps. It will build experience and keep younger players focused as they know there are opportunities to be seized.

*Special teams were a mixed bag. Kick-off coverage was average at best. The new place kicker, Jack Gonsoulin, went 2 for 3 and on FG's and made all 3 PAT's.

LSU plays Chattanooga on Saturday in a game that will effectively be over by halftime. Look for plenty of young players to get game action and maybe we will see more of Myles Brennan at QB.

LSU 55 – Chattanooga 3

Other observations from this weeeknd:

1. Kevin Sumlin is done at A&M. You just cannot lose a game like this when your head coaching job is in jeopardy. Epic collapse by the Chavis defense.

2. Brandon Harris is not good at football. After throwing a game killing pick in last season's opener in Wisconsin, Harris threw two INT's in the opener forhis new school, North Carolina. Same result as last season, his team lost.

3. Alabama's defense is as nasty as ever.

4. Feel really bad for the players that suffer injuries. These guys work so hard and to then have it taken away in the first game of the season is cruel. Texas A&M, FSU and Maryland all lost their starting QB's for the season this weekend.

5. So much for the next "Chosen One" Tom Herman. After giving up 51 to Maryland in Austin, the Longhorns look no better than they did in 2017. Curious to see how this plays out.