Jacob Bunn's 2011 LSU Football Preview

Posted on July 26, 2011 by Jacob Bunn

Predicted 2011 Record: 9-3 (5-3)

It seems most LSU fans think Les Miles is either a complete imbecile or a mad genius, depending upon which day of the week you ask them. This year’s version of the Tigers is supposed to be something special, and I think it will be. The real question, though, is whether or not they can manage the schedule in front of them.

Experience is something that LSU has this year on both sides of the football. One of the biggest points of emphasis is going to be quarterback play. Whether it will be Zach Mettenberger or Jordan Jefferson remains to be seen.

This is how I see LSU’s 2011 season shaking out:

Sept 3 – Oregon (Arlington, TX) – Win 32-28

Sept 10 – Northwestern State – Win 52-0

Sept 17 – @Mississippi State – Win 19-14

Sept 24 – @West Virginia – Win 24-10

Oct 1 – Kentucky – Win 31-21

Oct 8 – Florida – Win 10-6

Oct 15 – @Tennessee – Loss 27-24

Oct 22 – Auburn – Win 21-17

Oct 29 – Off

Nov 5 – @Alabama – Loss 26-24

Nov 12 – Western Kentucky – Win 37-10

Nov 19 – @Ole Miss – Win 18-7

Nov 26 – Arkansas – Loss 41-35

LSU’s team has a boatload of talent this year. I just don’t see them strolling through this difficult schedule without incurring several losses. Tennessee, I believe, has an excellent shot at pulling off the upset to give the Tigers their first defeat, the Alabama game is played in Tuscaloosa, and Arkansas will outplay LSU on the last weekend of the year. Last season, LSU had a real chance of ending up in Glendale, but they ran into Cam Newton. This year, with many retuning, they should be there again. But, the schedule is simply too rigorous, and I don’t think Les Miles can coach his way to a perfect season.

Email Jacob at jacob@bunnsports.com and follow him on Twitter at @JacobBunn