Oklahoma vs. LSU: Playoff Implications at Stake in Big Showdown
College Football/Sports

Oklahoma vs. LSU: Playoff Implications at Stake in Big Showdown

The No. 8 Sooners aim for a College Football Playoff spot against an underperforming LSU team.

No. 8 Oklahoma hosts LSU in its season finale with a chance to clinch a spot in the College Football Playoff. The Sooners stunned Alabama two weeks ago to move into the top 10, and should maintain their spot as long as they take care of business against a struggling LSU squad.

The Tigers fired coach Brian Kelly midseason and have since been inconsistent. LSU barely eked out wins against Arkansas (23-22) and Western Kentucky (13-10), but the defense has been lockdown this season. In the win against Western Kentucky, the Tigers held the Hilltoppers to 152 total yards and 2.3 yards per play.

Last season, LSU quarterback Garrett Nussmeier threw for 277 yards and three touchdowns in a 37-17 win against the Sooners. However, Nussmeier is questionable for the upcoming game as Oklahoma pushes for their 10th win.

Oklahoma vs. LSU: Need to know

Finding a way:

Oklahoma’s offense has remained an inconsistent unit despite the addition of quarterback John Mateer, but the Sooners’ defense and special teams have been remarkable. Against Tennessee, kicker Tate Sandell made three 50+ yard field goals to complement a defensive touchdown. In an upset against Alabama, three Oklahoma drives started in Tide territory, accompanied by another defensive score. Even against Missouri, Peyton Bowen blocked a field goal.

Star secondary:

While LSU limps to a 7-4 record, their highly-rated additions in the secondary have proven vital. Cornerback Mansoor Delane rates among the best in the sport, alongside safeties A.J. Haulcy and Tamacrus Cooley, who have formed a formidable unit. The Tigers lead the SEC with a 109.7 opposing passer rating and have allowed only eight touchdowns to 14 interceptions. Mateer has generally avoided mistakes, but the Tigers represent the toughest pass defense the Sooners have encountered this year.

Sategna’s emergence:

Oklahoma wide receiver Isaiah Sategna has quietly established himself as one of the key players on the team. The junior is sixth in the SEC with 56 receptions, having caught at least four passes in every FBS game. Last week against Missouri, Sategna recorded an impressive 87-yard touchdown that was crucial to the game’s outcome.

Where to watch Oklahoma vs. LSU live

Date: Saturday, Nov. 29 | Time: 3:30 p.m. ET
Location: Gaylord Family Oklahoma Memorial Stadium – Norman, Oklahoma
TV: ABC | Live stream: Fubo (Try for free)

Oklahoma vs. LSU prediction, picks

Both Oklahoma and LSU anticipated more from their quarterback situations, leading to expectations of a defensive showdown in Norman. Running the ball will be challenging for both teams, and the game’s outcome may hinge on which team commits fewer mistakes on offense and special teams. This scenario favors Oklahoma, but a spread of ten points is excessive, especially in a match that may not feature multiple touchdowns.

Pick: LSU +10

Next article

Tennessee and Vanderbilt Gear Up for 120th Clash in College Football

Newsletter

Get the most talked about stories directly in your inbox

Every week we share the most relevant news in tech, culture, and entertainment. Join our community.

Your privacy is important to us. We promise not to send you spam!