Last week against Alabama, Oklahoma leaned heavily on the ground game, running the ball 50 times compared to just 12 pass attempts—seven of which were scrambles. This run-heavy strategy proved effective, and it’s likely the formula the Sooners will need again to overcome LSU.
LSU’s run defense ranks 64th nationally, presenting an opportunity for OU, even though the Sooners’ rushing stats are modest (76th nationally). However, their 257-yard rushing performance against Alabama highlighted significant adjustments that could pay off. While LSU’s coaching staff will likely prepare for this approach, quarterback Jackson Arnold and tight ends coach Joe Jon Finley must resist the urge to throw into crowded defensive fronts. Instead, Oklahoma’s power formations—two-back sets, two tight ends, and full-house backfields—should aim for the same efficiency they showed against Alabama.
Stopping the Tigers
Oklahoma’s defensive vulnerability lies in defending the deep pass. Even in last week’s strong showing, Alabama’s quarterback Jalen Milroe completed passes of 32, 28, and 30 yards, nearly adding a 36-yard touchdown. While LSU quarterback Garrett Nussmeier isn’t known for airing it out deep, his key receivers, Kyren Lacy and Aaron Anderson, average 15 yards per catch. However, LSU is ranked 77th nationally in yards per completion (11.81), and Nussmeier ranks 60th individually. Seven of LSU’s top 11 receivers average fewer than 10 yards per catch, suggesting a game plan focused on shorter throws and check-downs.
That said, LSU’s passing game remains potent, with three receivers boasting over 50 catches this season. In contrast, Oklahoma’s top receiver, Bauer Sharp, has 41 receptions, followed by Deion Burks (31) and Brenen Thompson (19). Nussmeier will spread the ball around, so OU’s secondary must be sharp, particularly against tight end Mason Taylor, who has 52 catches for 518 yards and two touchdowns. Coach Brent Venables has praised Taylor as one of the SEC’s best tight ends, and Oklahoma has struggled against the position all season.
Ball Security Is Key
Turnovers have been Oklahoma’s Achilles’ heel. Venables has emphasized that when OU wins the turnover battle, they are undefeated (5-0). When they lose it, they’re winless (0-5).
Protecting the football is critical. Quarterback Jackson Arnold has fumbled 11 times, losing six, while backup Michael Hawkins has lost two of his three fumbles. Running back Taylor Tatum has also struggled with ball security, fumbling four times and losing three. Special teams haven’t been immune either, as Billy Bowman and Peyton Bowen have collectively fumbled three punts, losing one.
No matter how effectively Arnold and Xavier Robinson run or how well Nussmeier throws, Oklahoma’s success hinges on protecting the ball. Turnovers will be the deciding factor in this matchup.
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