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LSU took down Arkansas in a narrow win Saturday night after a second-half shootout that ended with a Tigers’ field goal in the final seconds.
It wasn’t the best win in the world, but LSU showed some positives, especially from quarterback Jayden Daniels, who had a veteran performance after a slow start to the game.
Here are some takeaways from the tight win.
Jayden Daniels shakes off slow start, posts veteran performance
An early interception didn’t derail Jayden Daniels’ confidence against the Razorbacks. The senior quarterback showed composure and put together a solid performance late in the first half and the second half.
Looking to avoid going into the half down 10, Daniels led LSU 75 yards down the field in just 18 seconds, connecting with Brian Thomas Jr. on a 49-yard bomb to make it just a 3-point lead for the Razorbacks at the half.
Then on the opening drive of the second half, Daniels made the most out of a free play and connected with Thomas again on a 49-yard touchdown to give the Tigers the lead.
When Arkansas nailed a field goal to cut the lead to 1 point, Daniels marched down the field and gave LSU another touchdown and a 24-16 lead. After Arkansas tied things up in the 4th quarter, Daniels led LSU down the field again to regain the lead.
Daniels’ performance was the kind you expect from a senior quarterback and it should give fans even more confidence moving forward.
LSU’s offense is great, now it’s time for defense to step up
LSU has already proved its offensive capabilities this season, but now the defense needs to step things up.
The defense was fine against Mississippi State, giving up just 2 touchdowns, but after a shaky showing against Arkansas it’s clear there are strides to be made. The Razorbacks had their way with the Tigers’ defense, which came up short on some crucial drives in the second half.
Next week, LSU will face a powerful offense in Ole Miss. The game is winnable for the Tigers, but a strong defensive effort will be needed.
LSU leaves much to be desired despite win
A win is a win, especially in the SEC, but after Arkansas kept things tight, it’s unclear if this LSU team is capable of beating teams like Ole Miss and Alabama down the road.
A subpar performance against an Arkansas team that has seemed mediocre so far is nothing to write home about and fans have every right to question the validity of this year’s team.
Many picked LSU to win at least 9 games this season and while that is still attainable, the Tigers will need to get in better shape to achieve that number.
Next week will be a good test and a measuring stick as the Tigers take on Ole Miss, which is coming off a loss against Alabama.
