As the sun sets over Death Valley, anticipation builds for the SEC showdown between Shane Beamer’s South Carolina Gamecocks and the No. 11 LSU Tigers. Both teams are eager to make a statement in Week 7 after enjoying a much-needed bye week.
According to ESPN’s FPI projections, LSU holds a significant advantage with a 73% chance of victory compared to South Carolina’s 27%. The Bayou Bengals are looking to bounce back after a narrow loss to Lane Kiffin’s No. 4 Ole Miss Rebels, falling 24-19 in Week 5. This setback left them with an overall record of 4-1 and a conference mark of 1-1.Â
Meanwhile, the Gamecocks come off an impressive win against Kentucky, triumphing 35-13, but their season has been marred by losses to Vanderbilt and Missouri, leaving them at 3-2 overall and 1-2 in SEC play.
Both squads are keen on addressing lingering questions about their personnel as they strive for consistency. LSU’s offense has averaged just 27 points per game against FBS opponents—a stark contrast to their struggles that see that number drop to only 19 points when facing tougher defenses. With passing yards ranking them at a disappointing 90th out of 136 FBS teams (averaging just 259 yards) and rushing yards sitting at a mere 105, they have room for improvement.
South Carolina finds itself even lower on the rushing charts, ranking last in the SEC with only 99.8 yards per game. Its passing game is also struggling, placing them dead last in scoring within the conference.
Kickoff is set for 6:45 PM from Death Valley.
Lee Ann joins the Saturday Down South team, bringing over fifteen years of experience covering the SEC as both a sports journalist and football scout. With her keen eye for talent, she has also flexes her skills as the Director of Recruiting for the Rebel Walk( Ole Miss) Herring, is a staff writer at USA Today Sports Wildcats Wire, where she dives into the thrilling world of Kentucky football and basketball. When fall rolls around, you can catch her on air as an analyst for the Wake up 502 College Football Show on Big X Sports Radio 96.1 FM—because who doesn't love a good game day chat? A proud Brown University alum, Lee Ann balances her time between the sidelines and press box with her passion for coaching her boys' youth lacrosse and savoring a fine glass of bourbon alongside a good cigar. So, whether she's dissecting plays or rallying the next generation of athletes, Lee Ann is your spirited insider ready to tackle all things SEC!
