What We Learned: Mississippi State Versus LSU
Sep 12, 2015; Starkville, MS, USA; LSU Tigers running back Leonard Fournette (7) is defended by Mississippi State Bulldogs defensive lineman Nick James (88) during the first quarter at Davis Wade Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Matt Bush-USA TODAY Sports
The Defense Will Be Fine
There was a lot of hemming and hawing about the defense entering this game after the Southern Miss game. The defense stepped up the challenge and played really well.
Yes, Leonard Fournette had an amazing game and helped lead the Tigers to 283 rushing yards. But the defense found there way to the backfield on a number of occasions and made numerous stops to get off the field. Had it not been for a defensive holding call in the first quarter, LSU likely doesn’t score their first touchdown, and this game might have turned out differently.
Leonard Fournette is an NFL caliber running back playing in college. He made a lot of those runs completely on his own. The Bulldogs won’t play a team with a running back of his caliber again. Derrick Henry of Alabama might be close to his level, but it is still too early to tell.
The defense isn’t perfect, but it will keep the Bulldogs in all of the games they play. And I wasn’t sure I was going to be able to say that coming into this season.