The total continues to be based too much on the reputation of LSU. Going back to Nick Saban, they have been predominately a smash mouth defensive oriented team. This squad is built on a very good offense and a so/so defense. All five of LSU games have gone over, three by 14 or more.

QB Tyler Russell returns for Miss State. Zach Mettenberger has finally justified the hype he had out of high school. His play steadily improved last year and it has taken off this year under former NFL head coach and offensive coordinator Cam Cameron. Including Saturday effort, Mettenberger is completing 64 percent of his passes for 1,398 yards and 13 touchdowns against only one interception.

Jeremy Hill, who like Mettenberger, slowed his career with some legal problems, is now as good of a running back as there is in college football. Both teams get 30 or more.