College Football Pick Louisiana State at Florida 10-09-2010

Louisiana State Tigers at Florida Gators

Saturday October 9th 2010 7:30 PM EST

Line: Florida -7

Overview:

The undefeated Tigers go into Florida to take on the one loss Gators. Florida’s only loss came last weak against number one Alabama. Florida is 0-1 against ranked opponents this year, while LSU is 2-0. This will be an oppurtunity for Florida to prove they can get it done against a worthy opponent. LSU has played in close football games multiple times this season. That could serve them well if this game comes down to the wire.

• The Florida Gators need to find a system that works. They are trying to use quarterbacks John Brantley and Trey Burton like they used Chris Leak and Tim Tebow. The thing is, all of the Wildcat formations and trickery are hindering the Gators from getting into a rhythm. The Gators need to establish who they are on offense. Getting something going offensively without being cute is going to be crucial this week. Alabama wasn’t impressed and LSU won’t be either.
• Stevan Ridley is a force to be reckoned with and everyone on Florida knows it. The SEC’s leading back has already broken for more than 100 yards three times this year. He isn’t a break away back. His numbers aren’t really inflated by huge gainers. He is a big back that makes a living by gaining five or six yards consistently all game long. Florida better buckle their chin strap. Ridley is six feet 220 pounds of man. He will certainly be Florida’s main focus, but he still should have a decent day.
• The match up to watch is going to be Florida’s O-line vs LSU’s defensive line. Florida’s offensive line looked out of sorts against Alabama. That was expected, since Alabama has a ferocious front seven. What will be interesting to watch is their ability to handle adversity this week. LSU doesn’t have the same calbier defensive line as Alabama, but they are ready to pounce if they smell blood in the water. Defensive tackle Drake Nevis could have a big day at defensive tackle if he studies his film this week.

Wrap Up:

I don’t like that Florida is expected to win by a touchdown. Florida is a high quality team. It is admirable that they lost so much to the NFL draft and they still manage to be successful. They are at home, which is a huge advantage in the SEC. Les Miles is well aware of all the intangibles headed into this ball game. LSU has a solid, battle tested football team. They aren’t going to be thrown off by the hostile environment. Florida might come away with a victory, but to say it is going to be more than a 3 point spread is disrespectful to the Tigers.

Free NCAA Football Pick: LSU +7