Orgeron Is Optimistic That His Tigers Will Show Much Improvement Against The Chippewas

Photo By: David Chivatero

Da Boot Sports
9/17/2021
By: Terrill J. Weil


BATON ROUGE, LA: Ed Orgeron met with the media on Thursday after practice to answer questions and discuss Saturday's upcoming contest against Central Michigan.

Orgeron as usual was happy with the preparation for the week, mentioning that it was a tremendous, spirited week of practice and several players will return from injury this week. The entire offensive line will be available this week except for Cam Wire. Armoni Goodwin may miss Saturday so there is a good chance that Tre' Bradford may see some action.

The Tigers will take on a much tougher opponent this week with Central Michigan (1-1) coming into Tiger Stadium. Chippewas Head Coach Jim McElwain brings a well coached team into Baton Rouge who in week one gave Missouri all they could handle, just falling short of an upset, 34-24. They, like LSU are coming off of their first victory of the season, a 45-0 win over Robert Morris.

"I think we're growing; I think we're growing as a program," said McElwain, who is in his third year in charge of the program. "You go out and you compete, and you compete at your highest level, it doesn't matter against who the opponent is.

Their offense is lead by a very talented sophomore quarterback, #3 Jacob Sirmon who has completed 57.4 percent of his passes for 405 yards, 4 touchdowns and 2 interceptions so far this season. But has been sacked 11 times already, which could be a problem against a LSU defense that showed improvement last week against an outmanned McNeese team, sacking Cody Orgeron eight times. (Tigers have 12 sacks on the season).

Sirmon's top targets to watch for are #6 Dallas Dixon (10 rec. 156 yds. 2 TDs) and #11 JaCorey Sullivan (10 rec. 136 yds. 3 TDs). #88 Kalil Pimpleton is also a very talented wide out and dangerous return man.

The Chippewas are averaging 238 yards rushing per game so far this season. They have a deep stable of running backs lead by #7 Lew Nichols who has rushed for 218 yards in two games.

The Central Michigan defense is ranked 40th in the nation in scoring defense by allowing 17 points per contest on the year. But they haven't forced a turnover yet this season. They also have struggled with their pass rush, only registering two sacks so far.

McElwain has done a great job improving the program at Central Michigan, but simply can't match the Tigers talent.

If the LSU defense can shut down the Chippewas' running attack, look for them to have another game with a high sack total.

Offensively, LSU must have success running the football, especially on short yardage situations. If the offensive line can give Max Johnson time, look for the Tigers to put up huge numbers through the air.

LSU has no excuse not to dominate this opponent for their second win of the season before SEC play begins next week.

PREDICTION:: LSU 45, Central Michigan 17

Below is video of Coach Orgeron's Thursday press conference.... GEAUX TIGERS!!!!

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