LSU has struggled defensively all season, showing problems in all facets of defense through eight games.
As the Tigers head to Gainesville on Saturday, an upset is unlikely for LSU, but the defense could end up being the talk of the game for the Tigers if the offense struggles like last week.
Bo Pelini and the staff have worked to try to fix the issues on this side of the ball all season, but it’s something that is taking patience each game.
Here’s a look into what LSU must do defensively to get the win over Florida.
Contain Florida’s deep attack
When Florida quarterback Kyle Trask begins to find his rhythm, it is hard to keep him contained from throwing the deep pass.
But, the Gators have a trend in 2020 of starting games slow on offense, which has led to teams keeping a close score until the second half.
That’s where the Tigers have an advantage. If Florida starts off the game slow, it could help the defense put pressure on Trask.
LSU had trouble last week with Alabama as Mac Jones and Devonta Smith torched the Tigers defense for three first half touchdowns on deep throws.
This week, Derek Stingley Jr. has to be covering the Gators’ top receiver. Against Alabama, Cordale Flott covered Smith and that did not work out well for LSU.
If the Tigers can force Trask into unwanted throws down the field and cause turnovers, the secondary can have a solid game.