A month ago, this weekend’s matchup between the Texas A&M Aggies and LSU Tigers was seen as one that would impact College Football Playoff seeding. Today, it’s one that could determine CFP participation altogether.
LSU losing to the Ole Miss Rebels in Lane Kiffin‘s return to Oxford isn’t embarrassing by any means; the Rebels are currently No. 4 in the country. Texas A&M falling to the Kentucky Wildcats at home in the fashion they did was a bit more shocking. The Aggies now have to overcome their miscues to try to beat the Tigers on the road. ESPN’s Football Power Index doesn’t see it happening. It gives LSU a 62.8% chance to prevail over Texas A&M.
Last year, the Aggies dominated the Tigers in this same setting. They went to Baton Rouge and walked out 49-25 winners, courtesy of Marcel Reed’s four total touchdowns. Mike Elko‘s defense also limited Brian Kelly’s offense to 278 total yards, putting together a complete showing for the victory. Pulling both of those feats off this season against Kiffin’s LSU squad, which is better on both sides of the ball, will be tough. But to make the CFP, Texas A&M may have to do so.
The Aggies and Tigers get underway at 7:30 p.m. E.T. on Saturday (ABC).
