Staff predictions for LSU's Week 3 showdown at South Carolina

LSU’s 44-21 win over Nicholls may have raised more questions about this team than it answered, but it will have to do in terms of a tuneup.

Now, the 1-1 Tigers hit the road to kick off SEC play against South Carolina as they make their first trip to Columbia since 2008. ESPN’s College GameDay will be in town for a game that looks a lot more intriguing than it did a week ago following the Gamecocks decisive 31-6 win at Kentucky.

LSU will be a much tougher opponent, but coach Brian Kelly’s squad also has its own issues, particularly in the run game and on defense. Here’s how our staff sees the Tigers’ SEC opener playing out.

This one feels pretty tough to project. The Tigers have pretty clear problems that were tested by an FCS opponent, which raises concerns entering this SEC opener. The Gamecocks have been fantastic defensively so far this season, but they haven’t faced an offense that can test it like LSU’s can. I’m also skeptical that LaNorris Sellers is poised to take advantage of issues in the secondary after two passing performances that left a lot to be desired. I ultimately like the Tigers to win and cover on the road.

Prediction: LSU 31, South Carolina 21

Will Rosenblatt, Staff Writer

Questions surround LSU as it enters conference play. Can they run the ball? Can Nussmeier push it down the field? Can the defense overcome the loss of Guillory? Long term, I don’t know. I expect LSU to roll this weekend, though. LSU will get the ground game going against a Gamecock defense that’s struggled against the run and Nussmeier will make enough plays to give LSU the points it needs.

Prediction: LSU 34, South Carolina 23

Kyle Richardson, Staff Writer

I think this game will actually be close until the Tigers get a clutch interception to give them a 10-point lead late.

Prediction: LSU 38, South Carolina 28

Composite Prediction

Prediction: LSU 34, South Carolina 24

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