LSU Football: Mettenberger Is the Missing Piece to the Tiger Puzzle

The approximately 33,000 fans in attendance at Tiger Stadium on Saturday for LSU's National L Club Spring Game witnessed a phenomenon that LSU fans aren't accustomed to seeing—the downfield pass.

Junior quarterback Zach Mettenberger aired it out on Saturday, completing 14-of-25 passes for 270 yards, two touchdowns and two interceptions. He completed three passes of 45 yards or more, including a 49-yard touchdown pass to sophomore Odell Beckham Jr. and added a 19-yard touchdown to senior Russell Shepard in the back corner of the end zone.

The interceptions are concerning, but the mere fact that LSU opened up the passing game and took some risks should be music to the ears of Tiger fans. The last time we saw LSU, offensive coordinator Greg Studrawa instituted a game plan that was about as predictable as the sunrise in a 21-0 loss to Alabama in the BCS National Championship Game.  

The lack of a passing game is nothing new for the Tigers. Ever since Ryan Perrilloux was dismissed before the 2008 season, LSU has been lacking in the quarterback department. It has been the missing piece to LSU's puzzle.  

The running game is fine. With Spencer Ware, Alfred Blue, Kenny Hilliard and Michael Ford back, the Tigers go four-deep at the running back position (and possibly five-deep if you count freshman Jeremy Hill). LSU fans want a more dynamic offense, and Zach Mettenberger proved this spring that he's certainly capable of providing that excitement.  

Translation: Look out SEC.

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