LSU-UCLA What to watch for
Caroline:
John Emery Jr and Tyrion Davis-Price have been on the roster at running back for three years now. Last year they averaged 42 yards (Emery) and 49 yards (Davis-Price) per game, which isn’t bad but needs to be better. Coach O is hoping to have a better running offense this season.
I think this will be the year that both of those guys are able to be explosive out of the backfield. They have playing experience and preparation on their side. They don’t want to lose their spots to the freshman behind them.
Patrick:
It begins and ends with the quarterback, but Kayshon Boutte is the player to watch in this game. Last year after a burst in the last three games, Boutte finished with the most yards receiving on the team. In the final two games of the year, Boutte posted 416 yards and four touchdowns. Both of those games started with Johnson at quarterback.
The main focus on offense is can the duo carry that momentum into the season opener against the LSU defense. If Boutte can tally his fourth-consecutive 100-yard performance dating back to last season, the Tigers could be well on their way to a season-opening win.
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LSU Tigers Wire Staff Picks
| Staff | Winner | Offense X-Factor | Defense X-Factor |
| Patrick | LSU Tigers | Kayshon Boutte | Ali Gaye |
| Caroline | LSU Tigers | John Emery Jr | Eli Ricks |