BYU vs. LSU

This game was originally scheduled to be played in Houston, but Hurricane Harvey forced a move to the Super Dome in New Orleans. That is great news for the Bayou Bengals, because this will now become a quasi-home game. The Ed Orgeron era has begun at LSU, and there is the usual blend of young and experienced talent. That talent has often manifested itself on defense, but the LSU offense has not thrived. Orgeron has brought in Matt Canada to open up the offense, but this is game one, and it may take a bit before this offense reaches its full potential. BYU finished at 8-4 last season, but may be overrated a bit coming in, as they were +14 in turnovers last season. QB Taysom Hill has moved on, and it is now up to Tanner Magnum. Magnum is a pocket passer, and could face an onslaught here vs. a fierce LSU defense. Without Jamal Williams in the backfield, and no RB returning that averaged more than 4.3 yards per carry, it is going to be a stiff challenge, as unlike Hill, Magnum is not a runner. BYU is going to be challenged to put points on the board and a new-system LSU offense may not be ready to meet expectations in Game 1. This one stays UNDER.