Miami vs. LSU: Preview, predictions, TV schedule and more

Keys for LSU

After kicking off the 2017 season in the top 25, LSU suffered an early season loss to Mississipi State knocking them down the polls. Only two weeks later a massive upset at the hand of Troy eliminated the Tigers name from the top 25. They were able to bounce back and have big wins against rival Florida and the Auburn Tigers. However, another loss from Alabama all but eliminated any chance of meaningful postseason play for LSU. Ending the season with a loss to Notre Dame in the bowl game sealed a 9-4 record for the 2017 Tigers.

LSU will need to replace it’s top quarterback, top two running backs and top two receivers after all will be playing on Sunday. Transfer quarterback Joe Burrows is in line to get the start after none of the incumbents ran away with the job in spring. At running back, it looks like a competition between the two remaining backs Clyde Edwards-Helaire and Nick Brossette who provided different elements in their own right, and freshmen Tae Provens and Chris Curry. At receiver, Texas Tech transfer Jonathan Giles helps the offense. Meanwhile Justin Jefferson and freshman Terrace Marshall look like big-time players on the outside. The offensive line returns almost every player and will give Burrows and company the time to shine.

Defensively there are two stars that jump any time you watch this team. At corner Greedy Williams continue in the lineage of elite LSU cornerback’s. His speed and ball skills will likely make him a top 15 draft choice next March. At linebacker Devin White is another star for LSU at the position. A rangy and instinctive linebacker who could join Williams in round one of the NFL draft. White may be the name right now but his running mate K’Lavon Chaisson should be a household name by season’s end. The front four does not feature a dominant name as of yet, but knowing LSU one will likely emerge this season.

The offense will endure growing pains in week one, especially against a turnover-happy Miami defense. If they can get their ground game going, the deep ball will be there with all that speed on the outside. This defense is capable of carrying LSU to quite a few wins this season. They have the speed to negate Miami’s which is the Hurricanes biggest strength. It’s strength versus strength and has the makings of an entertaining contest.