LSU vs. Syracuse: Game Grades, Analysis for Tigers

After a slow first half with only a combined 10 points, LSU was able to survive the upset bid on the road at Syracuse in the 34-24 victory. The eighth-ranked Tigers pummeled the Orange throughout the second half behind a fearless defensive front and punishing star running back Leonard Fournette. Check out the NCAA box score HERE.

Overall, however, both squads learned positive things about themselves, with LSU gaining perspective on its resilience to adversity and talent across the board. Going forward, with a home contest against Eastern Michigan on the schedule, the Tigers will have the opportunity to continue to improve. 

	First Half	Second Half
Pass Offense	C+	B+
Rush Offense	B	A+
Pass Defense	A-	B-
Rush Defense	A	B+
Special Teams	B	A
Coaching	C+	B+

Pass Offense: Following a dismal first-half performance, starting quarterback Brandon Harris was able to put together a strong final two quarters, including two throws that essentially sealed the game for LSU down the stretch. Statistically, Harris generated 157 yards with one score on 8-of-16 passing for the day, with a massive 51-yarder to Travin Dural serving as his most notable highlight. 

Rush Offense: For the second straight week, Fournette acted as the offensive focal point, bouncing off, running through and sprinting by defenders through both halves. With his notoriety on the rise, it became obvious the 'Cuse defense focused on containing him, but even the most relentless pursuit could not keep Fournette from finishing with 26 carries for 244 yards and two scores. 

Pass Defense: The first half proved dominant defensively for LSU, but a revived Syracuse team tested the Tigers passing game all through the second. Fifth-string walk-on quarterback Zack Mahoney caused issues for the secondary on more than one occasion, compiling a 16-of-38 performance for 154 yards and three scores with just one interception (a tipped pass) for the Orange. The first-time starter was able to gain confidence throughout as LSU had trouble forcing significant pressure. 

Rush Defense: Conversely, the LSU front seven were a sponge for Syracuse running backs, only allowing 58 yards on a combined 14 carries between two Syracuse rushers. However, Mahoney had 40 rushing yards of his own, sometimes finding first downs with his legs. Overall, though, the Tigers were extremely well put together against the rush. 

Special Teams: Two made field goals, a punt return for a touchdown and a strong overall performance is all you need to know. However, it should be noted 'Cuse was able to gain decent field advantage consistently with its own return game, along with a few shanked punts by LSU. 

Coaching: Maybe it's just the fact that LSU head coach Les Miles is incapable of overreacting, but his exceptional calm in the face of an upset bid following the first half was telling. The Tigers played beyond expectations in the second, serving up the Orange their first loss of the season.