Offense
Receiver
We were told during the off-season that the receiver room was the deepest it had ever been. Against Auburn, the talent of the receiving corps was highlighted. Justin Jefferson, Jonathan Giles, and Dee Anderson all had clutch third down receptions, and Derrick Dillon did the most of his one reception by taking it 71 yards to the house.
My biggest takeaway from this game was that Justin Jefferson has emerged as Joe Burrow’s favorite target. Asked many times to make big plays, Jefferson showcased excellent route running, incredible body control on the sideline, great chemistry on a back shoulder throw from Burrow, and his incredible play making ability. It’s fair to say that Justin Jefferson is the best player on this LSU offense.
Offensive Line
In the run game, this unit had their struggles. The Auburn defensive line is the real deal and is one of the best defensive lines in the country. This area of the offense must improve if LSU football will finish better, more opportune opponents.
In the passing game, however, this unit put up their best performance of the year. Showing wonderful cohesion, they only allowed one sack (one that Joe Burrow scrambled into). The play by tackles Saahdiq Charles and Austin Deculus was excellent. Even though there were a couple of times they got beat, they showed off a great ability to recover and give Burrow space to step up. The interior line showcased their excellent power by stonewalling any interior rush that came their way.
Shakeup Coming?
Early in the game, Senior Garrett Brumfield had to leave the game, and true Freshman Chasen Hines had to grow up quickly. I really enjoyed the effort and power Hines showed. I’d love to see more from him, and I’d love to see some type of shakeup on the line, as some players are consistently making errors.
Right guard Damien Lewis hasn’t played his best football over the past three games and had two very costly penalties in the game. He also has a habit of allowing penetration from quicker defensive lineman.
Overall, I absolutely loved the play from the line as a whole. This was their best performance on the year when you take into account their opponent. On clutch conversions, Burrow was never touched. While Burrow looked great in the clutch, it was the offensive line keeping him clean that allowed this offense to move the way it did.