The no. 16 LSU Tigers are set to clash with the South Carolina Gamecocks in a pivotal Week 3 matchup at Williams-Brice Stadium in Columbia. LSU enters this contest on the heels of a 44-21 victory over Nicholls, while South Carolina is riding high after a commanding 31-6 win against Kentucky. Historically, LSU has dominated in Columbia, boasting a 5-1-1 record, but the Gamecocks’ defense has been a formidable force this season, allowing just 25 points in their first two games.
LSU’s offense faces critical challenges, particularly in light of their struggles against Nicholls. Head coach Brian Kelly must address these issues quickly, or the Tigers risk jeopardizing their College Football Playoff hopes. On the defensive side, LSU will be without standout defensive back Jacobian Guillory, who is out for the season with an ACL tear. Junior Shone Washington will step into his role, but the Gamecocks’ offensive threats, LaNorris Sellers and Raheim Sanders, will undoubtedly test the Tigers’ defense.
Injury concerns continue to plague LSU, with wide receiversKyle Parker and Chris Hilton sidelined. However, offensive guard Garrett Dellinger is expected to return after recovering from a concussion, a crucial boost for LSU’s offensive line. As the Tigers prepare for their SEC opener, all eyes will be on how they respond to these challenges and whether they can maintain their unbeaten streak in Columbia against a confident South Carolina squad.
