In a matchup that’s never happened before, the No. 14 LSU Tigers are set to host the Grambling State Tigers in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, on Saturday night. Both teams are eager to bounce back from disappointing season-opening losses and make a statement in Week 2.
LSU entered the season with high expectations, ranked No. 5 in the AP preseason poll. However, their opening game against preseason No. 8 Florida State took an unexpected turn. Despite being slight favorites, LSU found themselves on the wrong end of a 45-24 scoreline, as Florida State mounted an impressive comeback, scoring 31 unanswered points in the second half. Coach Brian Kelly shouldered the responsibility for the loss but also expressed disappointment in his team’s effort.
“Any time you have a setback, you’re going to examine everything,” Kelly said. “From play calls, to personnel, to what time did we leave the locker room. All of that is under scrutiny. Everyone could have been better.”
This loss marked the second consecutive year that LSU fell short in its season opener against FSU, highlighting the need for improvement in Week 2.
Grambling State, led by second-year coach Hue Jackson, also faced a tough season opener in the nationally televised inaugural Brick City HBCU Classic. Despite falling short against Hampton with a 35-31 scoreline, Jackson remains optimistic about his team’s potential.
“It’s just one game,” Jackson said. “We have a different idea of who we are and what we can be. We have a lot of work to do, and I think to a man they understand that.”
Grambling State is stepping up significantly in class, facing not only an FBS program but also a Top 25 team in LSU. LSU, driven by the desire to erase the memory of their opening performance, will be a formidable challenge for Grambling State. Quarterback Myles Crawley showed promise in the first game, completing 25 of 38 passes for 311 yards and two touchdowns, while receiver Lyndon Rash added eight catches for 90 yards and a score.
As these two Tigers clash for the first time ever, fans in Baton Rouge and beyond eagerly anticipate a game where both teams are hungry for redemption. LSU aims to rediscover its competitive edge, while Grambling State seeks to prove its worth on a grand stage. Saturday night promises to deliver a thrilling contest between two Louisiana schools with much to prove in the weeks ahead.
