SCOUTING THE OFFENSE
The Tigers may be averaging 30.2 points per game, but in the games that mattered -- losses to Auburn and Georgia -- they scored a total of 25 points. The running game has been inconsistent and the offense is still searching for an identity and rhythm as QBs JaMarcus Russell and Marcus Randall continue to split time.

SCOUTING THE DEFENSE
LSU dominated Georgia's offense twice last year with its pass rush, sacking Georgia QB David Greene, batting down his passes at the line of scrimmage and forcing turnovers. Last week, however, the Bulldogs kept the blitz at bay for the most part and hit the Tigers' man-to-man defense with five touchdown passes. It's easy to blame CBs Corey Webster and Travis Daniels, but the Tigers either need to do a better job with the blitz, play some zone, use more nickel and dime packages or use the safeties to help the corners. The Tigers also need to improve against the run after giving up 209 rushing yards last week.

QUOTE TO NOTE
"He (JaMarcus Russell) played OK. Marcus (Randall) played OK. But we've got to give them a chance. They got sacked three times in our first 14 plays before they even got their feet in the ground. We've got to have better pass protection." -- LSU coach Nick Saban on QBs JaMarcus Russell and Marcus Randall.

Copyright (C) 2004 The Sports Xchange. All Rights Reserved.