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The LSU Tigers (2-1) will host the New Mexico Lobos (2-1) at Tiger Stadium on Saturday at 7:30 p.m. Although it is the first time both teams meet, LSU enters the game as the clear favorite.
LSU Aims to Keep Consistency
LSU opened Southeastern Conference play with a 31-16 win over Mississippi State. After being down 13-7 at halftime, the Tigers rallied from behind with three touchdowns in the fourth quarter. Junior quarterback Jayden Daniels had an outstanding performance with 210 passing yards and a touchdown. He also registered a rushing touchdown in the fourth quarter to spark the comeback.
On Wednesday’s SEC football teleconference, LSU head coach Brian Kelly said he was excited about the team’s progress this season. The Tigers opened their campaign with a disappointing loss against Florida State on Sept. 4 but came back with a blowout win against Southern University a week later. Kelly also highlighted the team’s need for consistency as they look to chain three consecutives wins when they face New Mexico.
Offensively, the Tigers have the upper hand. LSU is averaging almost 40 points per game against solid defenses such as Mississippi State’s. New Mexico, on the other hand, is posting 27 points per game against non-power five opponents. Despite the broad differences, Kelly believes the Tigers will need to continue improving on the defensive side.
Hopeful Lobos
On Sept. 17, New Mexico defeated UTEP, 27-10, to secure their best start in years.
Since the start of the 2017 season, The Lobos hold a 15-43 record, with only four of those wins against Mountain West opponents. This year, things seem to have a more promising look as head coach Danny Gonzales enters his third year in charge.
Gonzales’ process, although slow, has been reliant on defense and ball control. In their game against UTEP, New Mexico’s defense forced seven turnovers and totaled 188 rushing yards. Sophomore running back Nathaniel Jones led the charge with one rushing touchdown and 83 yards in 21 carries.
That's how it's done. Represented the 505 and got the W.#GoLobos #WeAreNM pic.twitter.com/b9cWcJe5Fb
— New Mexico Football (@UNMLoboFB) September 18, 2022
