LSU meets Nicholls for first time Saturday

Saturday marks the 100th season of football in Tiger Stadium and it’s remarkably the first meeting ever between LSU and Nicholls State on the gridiron.

The two teams were scheduled to play in 2020, but the game was cancelled because LSU only played an SEC schedule because of Covid.

The long-awaited matchup finally happens Saturday and here are five things to keep an eye on.

LSU’s running game

Despite all the talk about an improved traditional running game, LSU’s ground attack left a lot to be desired in the loss to USC. Kaleb Jackson had just 14 rushing yards and now his role becomes even bigger with the season ending injury to John Emery.

Freshman running back Caden Durham should make his LSU debut and fellow freshman JuJuan Johnson could also see some carries after spending the preseason as a safety. Johnson provides depth at RB with Emery’s injury.

Who is the back-up quarterback?

LSU is expected to have a big lead in the second half, so we’ll get a better idea of who is Garrett Nussmeier’s back-up. At the end of preseason camp, Coach Brian Kelly was not ready to announce a back-up. Vanderbilt transfer AJ Swann and redshirt freshman Rickie Collins shared snaps with the second team. Wouldn’t be surprised if Collins gets more snaps. Swann has several starts under his belt, Collins needs gametime reps.

Changes on LSU’s offensive line

LSU Coach Brian Kelly said on Thursday starting left guard Garrett Dellinger is questionable with an undisclosed injury. He’s made 22 starts in his LSU career. If Dellinger can’t play, Bo Bordelon and Paul Mubenga are possible candidates to start in his place. The coaching staff is also very high on Tyree Adams. Adams projects as a future starting tackle but could play on the inside in a pinch.

More big plays in the passing game

LSU has a chance to create more big plays in the passing game against Nicholls. Redshirt freshman Shelton Sampson has the potential to do it. He did not play against USC, but Coach Brian Kelly said this week they want to see more of Sampson, who at six-foot-four has a chance to beat smaller defensive backs for the ball.

5.  LSU’s defensive line

In the loss to USC, the Tigers defensive line looked much improved over last year. Leading the way was defensive end Sai’vion Jones. He had two sacks and five tackles. The Tigers had seven tackles for a loss as a team against the Trojans.

Jones said this week it’s important not to get a big head after a big game, being consistent is more important. Let’s see if Jones and the defensive line can have another solid game.

I like LSU to win 49-10.