Shake it off...

Well, despite all the opportunities our beloved Bulldogs snatched defeat from the jaws of victory last Thursday, losing to Auburn 17-14. Ignoring the 10 points AU scored from our two costly turnovers on offense, the WR's dropped about 6 passes in the 2nd half (a half which also saw our defense blank the Tigers), 1-2 of which could've broken for big-time plays and potential scores. Also there was a near interception on defense that could've resulted in a pick-6, but alas it was not to be.

But that's ok, it's a new week, and a new foe, so it's time to shake it off...

THEME SONG THIS WEEK -
The Donnas - Take It Off

Go on and take it off
(echo) Take it off!
You gotta shake it off baby, for me
C'mon and break me off
(echo) Break me off!
'Cause I get what I want and I like what I see!


This week the Bulldogs face another set of Tigers... The Bayou Bengals. Going on the road in the SEC is never easy, and winning at Tiger Stadium in Baton Rouge has proven to be a tough task for the Bulldogs in the last decade. Through the first two games of the season LSU's defensive front is putting up solid numbers. There are some questions at the QB position, though, which could prove beneficial for MSU.

KEYS TO THE GAME -

DEFENSE - MSU's defense held Auburn scoreless in the second half of last Thursday's game. The defense will need to build on that success and maintain their momentum, as they face another dual-threat QB in Jordan Jefferson. Although Jefferson is not as "dyn-o-mite" as Cam Newton, he can run the ball. The Bulldogs will have to shut down the running game to try and force LSU to beat them through the air. If that happens, we have a shot.

OFFENSE - The MSU offense gave up two turnovers last week and Auburn monopolized on those opportunities big time. The offense must protect the ball and execute plays. The microscope will be focused on the WR's until they show they can make the catches they need to make. In order to open up the passing game I think you will see MSU try to run the ball a bit more this week, likely at the edges with some option plays before they try to send Ballard or Perkins up the middle. If they can move the chains with the running game the world is their proverbial oyster.

TURNOVERS - Turnovers have been a hallmark of MSU football in the last decade, but not the good kind like you like. For the Bulldogs to win they have GOT to protect the ball. They will likely need the help of a pick-6 to come out on top, though, so forcing turnovers is a must.

BOTTOM LINE - For the Bulldogs to get what they want and like what they see, they have to come out ahead in the turnover margin.

WILD AND WOOLLY PREDICTION -
MSU 24 - LSU 21

REALISTIC PREDICTION -
MSU 17 - LSU 27

I sure hope I'm a Woolly Bully come Saturday night...