For the Gamecocks, LSU will be a challenge

The 12th-ranked Gamecocks (3-0, 1-0 in the Southeastern Conference) know Saturday game at second-ranked LSU (3-0, 1-0) will be a challenge. LSU’s defense has rung up a long list of impressive numbers through three games.
Consider:

• One — the number of touchdowns the No. 2-ranked Tigers have surrendered and where they rank nationally in scoring defense, pass efficiency defense and total defense.
• One — Avg rushing yards per carry by opposing offense’s against LSU defense.
• Two — the number of shutouts in three games.
• Three — LSU’s rank nationally in rushing defense (30 yards per game).
• Four — LSU’s rank nationally in sacks (13).
• 161 — The number of starts LSU’s 11 starters on defense has among them.

LSU has won 15 straight at home, but the Tigers fare better at night in Tiger Stadium. LSU is 203-59-3 at night at home but just 19-22-3 in day games, although the Tigers are 8-2 since 2000. USC is 2-14-1 against LSU, including 1-9 on the road. The lone win in Baton Rouge was an 18-17 victory Oct. 1, 1994.

If the Gamecocks, a 16-point underdog, have any chance of winning, the defense will have to continue its stellar play — and the offensive line will have to improve mightily.