LSU Tigers vs Baylor match in the upcoming Tue, 31 Dec, 21:30
The LSU Tigers are set to face the Baylor Bears in the Texas Bowl on December 31, 2024, at NRG Stadium in Houston, Texas. Kickoff is scheduled for 3:30 p.m. ET, with the game broadcast live on ESPN. cite turn0search1
Team Overviews:
- LSU Tigers (8-4): Under head coach Brian Kelly, the Tigers have experienced a season of highs and lows. After enduring a three-game losing streak against Texas A&M, Alabama, and Florida, LSU rebounded with decisive victories over Vanderbilt and Oklahoma. Junior quarterback Garrett Nussmeier has been instrumental in this resurgence, notably passing for 277 yards and three touchdowns in the win against Oklahoma. cite turn0search2
- Baylor Bears (8-4): Led by head coach Dave Aranda, a former LSU defensive coordinator, the Bears enter the bowl game on a six-game winning streak. Their offense has been particularly impressive, exemplified by a dominant performance against Abilene Christian, where they achieved a 74.1% shooting rate. Key players like Jayden Nunn and Norchad Omier have been pivotal in Baylor’s offensive success. cite turn0search2
Betting Insights:
- Point Spread: LSU is favored by 1.5 points. The Tigers have a 3-6 record against the spread when favored by 1 point or more this season, while the Bears are 7-3-1 against the spread overall. cite turn0search0
- Over/Under: The total is set at 59.5 points. LSU’s games have averaged a total of 56.9 points, while Baylor’s have averaged 53.9 points this season. cite turn0search3
Key Matchup Factors:
- LSU’s Offense vs. Baylor’s Defense: Nussmeier’s passing efficiency will be tested against Baylor’s secondary. The Bears have demonstrated defensive strength, notably limiting Abilene Christian to a 34.5% shooting rate in their recent matchup. cite turn0search2
- Baylor’s Rushing Attack: The Bears average 4.9 yards per carry, ranking 32nd nationally, while LSU’s defense allows 4.5 yards per rush, placing them 84th. This suggests Baylor may find success on the ground. cite turn0search0
Historical Context:
This game marks the first meeting between LSU and Baylor since the 1985 Liberty Bowl, where Baylor secured a 21-7 victory. Overall, LSU leads the series 8-3. The reunion of Coach Aranda with his former team adds an intriguing narrative to this matchup. cite turn0search4
Conclusion:
The Texas Bowl presents a compelling matchup between two teams with identical records but differing season trajectories. LSU aims to continue its recent momentum under Nussmeier’s leadership, while Baylor seeks to extend its winning streak under Coach Aranda’s guidance. Fans can anticipate a competitive game with strategic plays on both sides of the ball.
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