LSU will face Central Michigan at home Saturday night and chief among Tigers coach Ed Orgeron’s concerns will be containing Chippewas running game, especially tailback Lew Nichols.

The 5-10, 220-pound freshman has rushed for 214 yards and 2 touchdowns through 2 games, including a 19-carry, 135-yard performance against Missouri in CMU’s season opener.

“They run the ball very well,” said Orgeron on Wednesday during the SEC’s weekly coaches teleconference. “No. 7 (Nichols) is an outstanding running back. … The biggest thing is tackling Lew Nichols. He does a good job with yards after contact. He’s going to be a good challenge for us.”

Also on Wednesday, Orgeron again addressed the status of running back John Emery, who was ruled ineligible earlier this week.

“He’s unavailable right now for the year, unless things change,” Orgeron said “And they could change. If they do change, I’ll play him, but right now, he’s unavailable for the year.”

Emery, a 6-foot, 215-pound junior, rushed for 378 yards and 3 touchdowns last season for LSU and was expected to be a major contributor in 2021.