Not sure lsu beating uk really means they are stepping up. Just means they have a pulse.
I think lsu has some nice pieces in place to beat om:
1. Defense -- pass defense is #1 in sec and #4 in the nation. Lsu's weakness on defense has been rush defense, but they've started to solidify there. They held florida to 123 rushing yards (53 yards below their 176 avg) and 306 total yards (79 yards below their 385 avg). They held kentucky to 71 rushing yards (97 yards below their 168 avg). They held kentucky to 217 total yards (198 yards below their 415 avg).
2. Running game -- lsu has the oline and rb's to give om trouble. Lsu's oline can hold their own with om unlike tenn. I don't think lsu will be able to run at first, but they'll stick with it and start finding some holes.
3. Rb screen game -- tenn had some success running rb screens at times. I think lsu will put this in the gameplan. Lsu loves the screen game and it will help their qb out.
4. Death Valley -- lsu looked like lsu at home last night. Since we beat them there, they've beat the next 2 teams 104-10. I know New Mexico and kentucky aren't om, but thats still impressive. This is a proud program that will be ready Saturday night to defend their homefield.
My biggest concern for lsu winning this game is can they get an early lead. Lsu can't play from behind in the game.