Auburn vs. LSU: 5 Ways a Quarterback Rotation Actually Benefits Tigers

The LSU Tigers are one of the top teams in the country, and part of that success can be contributed to the play at quarterback.

Head coach Les Miles uses a quarterback rotation, utilizing the unique talents of Jordan Jefferson and Jarrett Lee to get the job done. This process seems unorthodox and unusual on a winning team, but the LSU Tigers get it done on a weekly basis.

Here are five ways a quarterback rotation actually benefits the Tigers in the game this week against Auburn.

Defensive Mix-Ups

When LSU plays Auburn this week, the road team will have to spend some extra time preparing for LSU. Employing two signal callers will put the pressure on the defense to prepare for two different game plans.

This extra time will put some tension on a team as they plan and could cause confusion come game time, giving an edge to LSU.

Situational Planning

Having two quarterbacks with different skill sets allows the coach to utilize his quarterbacks for whatever the situation calls for.

If it is a short yardage down, Miles will call on Jefferson and his massive body to push the line of scrimmage for the extra yardage.

In a third and long situation, Miles will call on Lee, the more accurate passer, to move the chains and keep the drive alive. This is something that other teams struggle with when they only have one quarterback that may be lacking a skill.

Same Game Plan

This is not new for the LSU Tigers or the two quarterbacks. They have always played this way and seem to embrace the concept. The coaching of Miles has made this a smooth transition and there is no jealousy or pettiness that gets in the way.

Each quarterback knows the system and this allows for flexibility in winning ballgames, and in the end that is what is most important.  

Attack Auburn’s Weakness

Auburn struggles on defense, but they recently have improved play, especially from the defensive front. Possessing two quarterbacks will be a bonus when offsetting the strength of the Auburn defense. Auburn is ninth in the SEC against the run and last against the pass.

This could give Lee more looks against Auburn as they attempt to get a big win in the SEC.

Closers

Another advantage of having two field generals is closing out games. When LSU gets a big lead against a team, they could milk the clock with a quarterback that manages the game better.

If they are trailing they can call on the quarterback that will drive down the field quicker and pile up the points.

These are just a few reasons why having a quarterback rotation actually helps LSU in the game against Auburn.

James Brown is a B/R Featured Columnist. Feel free to contact James at [e-mail] or follow on him on Twitter