LSU-Ole Miss Week Takes an Unexpected Turn
LSU-Ole Miss week has generated plenty of headlines beyond the football field. Matt Moscona, host of After Further Review, joined Mornings With Brian Haldane to discuss the buildup, the massive crowds expected in Oxford and the storylines surrounding both teams.
Moscona said the week started quietly before several developments intensified the attention surrounding the game. With a huge crowd expected in Oxford, local officials also prepared for significant traffic and crowd-management challenges.
LSU Defense Could Set the Tone
When it comes to the matchup itself, Moscona pointed to LSU’s defense as a key factor. He said the Tigers have shown strong defensive performances through the opening weeks of the season.
Ole Miss, meanwhile, has struggled defensively and enters the matchup with concerns along its offensive line. Moscona said LSU’s ability to pressure the quarterback and limit Ole Miss offensively could play a major role in the game.
On the other side, LSU’s offense needs to clean up mistakes from its previous game. The Tigers turned the ball over on four consecutive possessions and struggled in short-yardage situations.
Quarterback Health Remains a Storyline
The status of LSU quarterback Sam Leavitt also became part of the week’s discussion. Moscona reported that Leavitt missed Wednesday’s practice because of back spasms before returning for Thursday’s lighter workout.
The quarterback moved from doubtful to questionable on the injury report, adding another layer of uncertainty ahead of kickoff. Moscona said he expects Leavitt to play but noted that injury reports can leave room for interpretation based on practice participation.
A Major Test for LSU
With both teams carrying championship aspirations, Moscona said the matchup provides an important test for LSU. The Tigers will need to protect the football, execute in short-yardage situations and maintain the defensive form they have shown early in the season.
The result will offer another indication of how LSU matches up as the season progresses.