Keys to the Game: No. 22 Ole Miss set to face LSU in Baton Rouge
BATON ROUGE — Ole Miss (15-1, 2-1 SEC) will take on LSU (10-6, 2-1) tonight in their third true road game of the season. Tip-off is set for 6 p.m., but before the ball hits the court, let’s take a look at what the Rebs will need to do to lengthen their two-game winning streak.
Start the Second Half Strong
In two of Ole Miss’ three road games, the Rebels have started the second half on fire by maintaining their lead and even extending it. In their third road game of the season, coming against Tennessee, Ole Miss came out flat in the second half and with 17:15 remaining, the Rebels were chasing 17 points. The Vols had everything rolling for them, which is much easier to do when you are playing at home.
For LSU, the Tigers have gone 5-2 in their last seven home games, with losses coming to Kansas State and Texas, two of the premier programs in college basketball. On January 6th, the Tigers defeated an extremely talented Texas A&M team by 15 points. While Ole Miss must start the first half with a high level of energy, coming out in the second half and eliminating the partisan LSU crowd will play a large role in the outcome of this game.
Secure the Basketball
It’s no secret that Ole Miss rarely turns the ball over, but head coach Chris Beard’s team will be up against a team that prides itself on creating turnovers, especially steals. LSU is in the 97th percentile in steals and leads the SEC by averaging 10 per game.
As I mentioned, LSU is playing a Rebel squad that does a fantastic job of taking care of the ball, but as we saw against Tennessee when Ole Miss turned the ball over 11 times, offense becomes much more difficult on the road in the SEC.
Protect the Paint
Similarly to the majority of SEC teams, LSU finds its most offensive success from shots inside the arc and paint. In their last five games, the Tigers have shot 45 percent from inside the paint and 28 from three-point range.
If the Rebs can force them to shoot three-pointers, play clean defense, and protect the rim, they should escape Baton Rouge with third SEC win. If LSU finds second-chance opportunities in the paint and makes their shots, this game could end up a lot closer than it needs to be. Regardless, it will make for a legitimate assessment of where Ole Miss stands after dominating Florida and Vanderbilt last week.
Make sure to tune into tonight’s game at 6 p.m. on SEC Network. Hotty Toddy!
