LSU is riding high coming off a big 36-16 win over Georgia. The Associated Press Top 25 for Week 8 back at No. 5. While the Week 6 loss to Florida was disappointing, it’s clear that Ed Orgeron’s squad is in control of its destiny when it comes to the SEC West, SEC Championship Game and the College Football Playoff.

The Tigers have five games remaining, including four against SEC West foes. ESPN’s Football Power Index – the World Wide Leader’s simulation-based metric ratings system – predicts LSU’s chance at winning each of the five remaining games:

  • Oct. 20 vs. Mississippi State: 58.9 percent
  • Nov. 3 vs. Alabama: 24.4 percent
  • Nov. 10 @ Arkansas: 88.2 percent
  • Nov. 17 vs. Rice: 99. 6 percent
  • Nov. 24 @ Texas A&M: 49.5 percent

It’s never a cakewalk in the SEC West. As most everyone would expect, the Tigers are favored against Arkansas and Alabama is favored in the big showdown set for Nov. 3 in Death Valley. Tigers fans might be surprised that the FPI is only slightly favoring LSU over Mississippi State and that Texas A&M, ranked lower by most voters, is favored in the season finale.

After the thrilling win over UGA, the Tigers are certain to be confident in their chances against anybody. Ed Orgeron will certainly have his squad take it one game at a time through the SEC West.