LSU has a tough task in its bowl game on Dec. 31 — as the Tigers will take on Heisman Trophy candidate Lamar Jackson and the Louisville Cardinals.

Jackson engineers a very dynamic, explosive offense capable of putting up points in a hurry.

Dave Aranda’s defense will have to be on their game in order to slow the nation’s most elusive signal-caller.

Unfortunately for the Tigers, they’ll be without one of their top defenders.

Per The Times-Picayune, linebacker Kendell Beckwith will be out of the game. The leader of the defense, Beckwith ranked first on the team in tackles (91). He suffered a knee injury versus Florida, and hasn’t been able to make it back healthy.

It also isn’t known as to whether star RB Leonard Fournette will feature in the contest. There’s a thought Fournette may sit out in order to be fully healthy for the NFL Draft combine.

Head coach Ed Orgeron had this to say on the rusher:

“I don’t know that; I hope he does. We’ll come back and see if he’s ready to go and practice. Hopefully he does. He’s been in every meeting, bright-eyed sand bushy tailed, wanting to go. He’s always indicated to me he’s wanted to represent the LSU Tigers in the best way. If an injury prevents him, it prevents him. If he’s well and ready to go, he’s going to play.”

Orgeron also announced that safety John Battle, cornerback Tre’Davious White, and wide receiver Travin Dural will be fine to play in the bowl game.