Hogs vs. Tigers Golden Boot Game Predictions
Passing Offense:
Tyler Wilson and LSU’s Zach Mettenberger will face off in the regular-season finale. Mettenberger has the ability to throw the ball all over the field, but accuracy has been an issue at times. Arkansas wide receiver Cobi Hamilton will need to create a matchup problem once again for the Hogs to be effective. Looking at what both offenses and opposing secondaries are capable of, I see this matchup very even coming in.
Advantage: Even
Rushing Offense:
LSU has the ability to run three very talented running backs in and out of the game. Their leading rusher, Jeremy Hill, slightly edges out the other two in rushing total on the season. LSU is ranked 37th overall in the nation for their rushing attack. Arkansas has been running the ball better as of late. With all the NFL-caliber talent that LSU has on the defensive side of the ball, it could be a rough go for the Hogs.
Advantage: LSU
Passing Defense:
Neither team was very effective in stopping the pass last week. A lot of youth and busted coverages are a possibility for this weekend’s matchup. LSU’s Zach Mettenberger has been inconsistent most of the year, but he threw for 273 yards on the Bulldog’s secondary. Arkansas will give up some big plays as well, and both sides must create turnovers to win this matchup.
Advantage: LSU
Rushing Defense:
LSU is big, athletic and very instinctive. The whole defensive line and linebacker crew is able to attack the ball and force opponents into long yardage situations. Arkansas is on the small end when it comes to Southeastern Conference defensive lines, so they will need to play bigger to have a chance. LSU has more talent and will display it’s dominance in rush defense.
Advantage: LSU
Special Teams:
This section can come down to the two punters, Dylan Breeding and Brad Wing. Both players have the ability to flip the field and give their team an added advantage. Both teams must look to avoid the big play from the other. Arkansas hasn’t been very explosive this year. LSU typically has good luck in the return game against the Hogs, and I feel they will find a way to exploit that this year as well.
Advantage: LSU
Coaching:
Les Miles has his Tigers at the top of the SEC once again. Arkansas is limping through this year just waiting to hear who the new coaching staff will be. LSU is in the running for a BCS bowl once again, and they have created a culture down there of which most teams in the country are envious.
Advantage: LSU
Overall:
LSU is the better team in almost every aspect of the game. Arkansas still has a powerful offense, but they haven’t put together a complete game all season. LSU has way more NFL-level talent on their roster, but Arkansas has some guys who will be playing to try and improve their draft stock as well. I look for LSU to roll with a 35-10 victory in Arkansas’ final game of the season.
Advantage: LSU
