LSU's tempo blasts CMU 49-21

After a lackluster offensive showing against McNeese last week, LSU debuted a new-look, high-pace tempo offense against Central Michigan. The result was a 49-21 beat down and nearly 500 yards of offense.

"Was very pleased with the up-tempo of our offense,” LSU coach Ed Orgeron said. “We’re pleased with the play of our young receivers. We have to continue to grow in our offense and let our players make plays."

All eyes have been on the struggling offensive line early this season. The unit turned in its best performance of the year giving up just a single sack, but still only paved the way for 84 yards rushing.

LSU running back Corey Kiner‍ didn’t start the game but ended up the leading rusher for the Tigers with some exciting runs on the way. He had 74 yards on 12 carries with a touchdown.

However, with the exception of a handful of throws, LSU’s passing game hit on all cylinders in this high-tempo look.

"I think we took the next step,” Orgeron said. "We're not there yet."

LSU quarterback Max Johnson‍ completed 26 of his 35 attempts with 372 yards and five touchdowns and one interception. This gives him 11 touchdowns, 863 yards and just two interceptions for the season.

"We closed it a little bit,” Johnson said of the gap between where the tempo was and where they want it to be. "Not as much as we wanted to.”

His favorite target was freshman receiver Deion Smith‍. Smith had a breakout game with multiple highlight-reel catches. He had five grabs for 135 yards and a pair of touchdowns. 

Johnson connected with plenty of other young receivers in the game throwing touchdowns to Jack Bech‍, Devonta Lee‍, and Kayshon Boutte‍.

Defensively, LSU’s front seven continues to improve after a disappointing performance in the season opener. After wreaking havoc for eight sacks last week, LSU chalked up another five sacks against Central Michigan.

LSU opened up its first two series with turnovers. On the first defensive series, LSU cornerback Derek Stingley‍ forced a fumble, which defensive end Andre Anthony‍ recovered and returned 33 yards for a touchdown. LSU safety Major Burns‍ followed that up with an interception.

LSU’s defense only yielded one score before reserves saw action late in the fourth quarter, and it came on a 78-yard blown coverage. 

Linebackers Damone Clark‍, Navonteque Strong‍ and Micah Baskerville‍ led the Tigers in tackles with six each.

LSU outgained Central Michigan 484-284.

NEW LSU Tigers Nike Unisex Zoom Pegasus 38 Running Shoe - Purple*