LSU vs. Georgia: The 5 Best Players on the Field

The 12-0 (8-0 SEC) No. 1 LSU Tigers take on the 10-2 (7-1 SEC) No. 14 Georgia Bulldogs today in the SEC Championship game in Atlanta. The Tigers are a heavy favorite, but the Bulldogs are hoping to keep the game within reach and possibly pull off the upset.

The Tigers bring a wealth of talent into the game which has given them the edge in almost every game this season. The Tigers are not going to outgun the Bulldogs however, as the Georgia squad has its fair share of playmakers.

Looking at the talent in the lineups, it is easy to see how the Bulldogs were able to regroup and build a 10-game winning streak. It is also easy to see how the Tigers have been able to push toward an undefeated season.

Looking at the SEC Championship game, here are the five best players on the field in the Georgia Dome.

Tyrann Mathieu: CB

Mathieu has become one of the most explosive players in college football this season. His ability to find the football and force turnovers has pushed him into record-breaking territory for the LSU Tigers. Keep in mind, Mathieu is just a sophomore.

Mathieu has also added big play ability in special teams. He's one of the most electric punt returners in the nation. His ability to affect the game on both defense and special teams is truly unique. Mathieu simply finds ways to make plays.

Aaron Murray: QB

Aaron Murray has had a great season for the Georgia Bulldogs in 2011. Murray has 2,698 yards and 32 touchdowns through the air this season. He has six games in which he has thrown three or more touchdowns. Murray’s composure and strong arm are a big piece of his game.

Today, Murray will need to have the best game of his career if he hopes to defeat the LSU Tigers. He is the best quarterback that will be taking snaps today and has the talent to lead the Bulldogs to a win. How the Bulldogs protect Murray from the LSU pass rush will determine his success. It has to come early.

Jarvis Jones: LB

Jones leads the SEC in sacks with 13.5 sacks on the season. Add to that his SEC leading 19.5 tackles for loss and Jones has separated himself as one of the best linebackers in the conference. Jones will be a major concern for the LSU offense.

Jones has the ability to force turnovers and make big plays happen in the backfield. LSU will be looking to use the speed option to move the football against the Georgia 3-4, but Jones will look to utilize his speed to keep the Tigers contained.

Reuben Randle: WR

Randle has been a huge asset for the Tigers offense this season. He is the favorite target for the Tigers when they look downfield, especially off of the play-action game. Randle has caught 48 passes this season for 889 yards and eight touchdowns.

Randle has had four games in which he achieved over 100 yards receiving. His 6’4" 208-pound frame is a huge advantage for LSU. I would expect Randle to be an early option for the Tigers offense to stretch the Georgia defense and attempt to open rushing lanes.

Morris Claiborne: CB

Claiborne is a major part in the LSU shutdown passing defense. He is a very talented corner that has 43 tackles on the season and five interceptions. Claiborne stepped into the spot left by Patrick Peterson’s early departure to the NFL this season. Claiborne has been just as effective as his predecessor.

Claiborne also contributes for the Tigers in the kickoff return game. He is very explosive and is usually the fastest player on the football field. He has track-star speed and football aggression. 

Look for all five of these players to have a major impact on the game. This game will likely be closer than most expect. Look for a game filled with excitement when these stars are on the field.