LSU Football: Offensive Line Questions Come at Worst Possible Time vs. Gamecocks

If LSU could draw up the worst case scenario heading into the South Carolina game, it might involve a hard-fought loss the week before, a quarterback that has been remarkably average and an offensive line that has more questions than answers.

Wait, that's been LSU's actual week prior to facing the Gamecocks.

Of all the issues facing Les Miles' crew this weekend, the questions along the offensive line have to be the most concerning.

According to Nola.com, the status of starting right guard Josh Williford and left tackle Alex Hurst is in doubt for this weekend's game against South Carolina.

Williford was injured early in last week's game with a concussion, and is doubtful.

Hurst has missed practice this week due to injury and frustration stemming from a move from right tackle to left tackle. 

If both players sit out this weekend, they would join Chris Faulk as offensive line starters that have missed time this season. Faulk tore his ACL in September and is out for the season.

Consistent offensive line play has been more myth than reality for LSU this season. The Tigers have given up 15 sacks, fourth-most in the SEC. Considering South Carolina leads the SEC with 25 sacks, LSU's offensive line questions are coming at the worst possible time.

Gamecock defensive end Jadeveon Clowney had only four tackles and one sack vs. Georgia last week, but was all over the place, disrupting plays on seemingly every drive.

It isn't just Clowney. Chaz Sutton and Aldrick Fordham each rank in the top 10 in the SEC in sacks, and Kelcy Quarles and Devin Taylor are both studs along the Gamecock defensive line.

If you're going to win in the SEC, it starts up front. Right now, the advantage in the trenches goes to South Carolina. That's bad news for LSU, which needs a win to keep its national title aspirations alive.

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