A quick reaction to LSU’s 41-3 win over Kentucky.

What it means: LSU is capable of playing like a top-25 team. Kentucky was no pushover, coming in at 5-1 and 2-1 in the SEC. LSU made them look like a FCS team for much of the night, stymying their offense while running the ball down their throats. This was a vintage LSU performance, replete with a few huge special teams plays, hard-hitting defense and that trademark power running game. LSU likely won’t jump back into the polls this week, but they’re making a case that they’re not as bad as they looked in two losses.

What I liked: The defense swarming to the ball. LSU has had major problems slowing down the run this season, but against Kentucky they had yellow hats around Kentucky’s ball carriers and in the backfield at all times. Danielle Hunter in particular gave the Wildcats fits, crashing the pocket on multiple occasions and defending the run extremely well. On the whole, LSU limited Kentucky to 2.6 yards per carry and 71 yards on the ground, as well as just 217 total yards.

What I didn’t like: Anthony Jennings’ decision making. The sophomore quarterback made some nice throws, hitting Terrence Magee for a few perfectly led screen passes, also finding Travin Dural streaking for a touchdown at the end of the first half. Still, LSU’s offense sputtered out on far too many occasions in the first half after two successful drives to start the game. Jennings was hesitant in the pocket, resulting in several sacks, holds and badly missed throws throughout. While he managed the game just fine, he was unable to make decisions anytime his first option was taken away.

Key play: Tre’Davious White’s punt return touchdown. With LSU up 10-0, Kentucky boomed a punt downfield to White, who was surrounded by no fewer than six Wildcats who appeared to have the returner surround. White turned on the jets to evade Kentucky’s coverage and was sprung by a massive block by freshman safety Jamal Adams as he turned the corner, sprinting to the end zone. The score ended any momentum Kentucky might have mustered against LSU’s inconsistent offense.

Who’s the man: Terrence Magee. The senior running back had by far his best game of the season. It started from the opening kickoff, which he took back 49 yards. Les Miles and Cam Cameron fed the spark plug all game, and Magee took advantage. He averaged more than 14 yards per carry, toting the ball nine times for 127 yards and 2 TD, also picking up 44 yards through the air. After struggling to take advantage of his inconsistent touches early in the season, No. 18 finally had a breakout performance.

What’s next: LSU hosts current No. 3 Ole Miss (7-0) next weekend. The Rebels delivered a 27-3 beat down to Tennessee in Oxford, smothering the Volunteers offense. LSU finally has some swagger this season, and the Tiger Stadium crowd should be rocking with a top-three team in the house.