LSU’s defensive keys to the game against Missouri

Here are the keys for LSU’s defense this weekend against Missouri.

Jason Getz-USA TODAY Sports

Make Missouri one-dimensional

Missouri wants to spread you out and run. That strategy hasn’t worked too well thus far, as the Tigers are averaging just 2.7 yards per rushing attempt.

LSU has a luxury most teams do not on defense. It has Stingley and Eli Ricks at cornerback. That means Pelini can load up the box and rely on his corners to play man coverage. Missouri doesn’t have receivers who can win against either LSU cornerback.

Senior wide receiver Damon Hazelton is a player to watch. The Virginia Tech transfer has nine receptions for 100 yards on the season. He should see plenty of Stingley.

If LSU can shut down Missouri’s running game early, this game could look a lot like the win against Vanderbilt one week ago.

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