Slow start dooms LSU chances against Auburn

The Tigers could not overcome a slow start and loss to Auburn 70-55. LSU is now 12-1 on the season

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LSU took on Auburn on the road in the first SEC match-up this season. LSU is ranked No.16, and Auburn is ranked No.11. The Tigers could not overcome a slow start and loss to Auburn 70-55. LSU is now 12-1, and Auburn is also 12-1.

Auburn got out to a 21-4 lead, LSU used tough defense to cut into the lead. Auburn went into halftime, leading 32-21. LSU had a chance to cut it to a four-point game with a fast break opportunity in the second half, but they turned the ball over. After the turnover, Auburn went on a 5-0 run to put the game away for good.

The Tigers did not play well on offense; they shot 28.6% from the field and 20.7% from the three-point land. Darius Days scored 11 points on 4-14 shooting from the field and 3-12 from beyond the arc. Xavier Pinson also struggled, shooting 3-11 from the field and scoring 13 points. In addition, the Tigers turned the ball over 17 times which did not help also.

What kept LSU hanging around was their defense, forcing 21 Auburn turnovers. Jabari Smith and Walker Kessler scored 16 points apiece for Auburn. Wndell Green Jr. added 15 off the bench.

On January 4th, LSU plays another formidable SEC opponent Kentucky at home. The Tigers must get off to a better start and not turn the ball over. Also, they must continue their strong defensive play to win the game.