College football's unique in that a single loss could mean the difference between a conference championship (or the ultimate regular-season goal, a College Football Playoff spot) and becoming an also-ran in the FBS ranks. If LSU wants to reach their goal of making the College Football Playoff in 2016, they can afford a maximum of one loss. Here are LSU's five toughest games heading into this year:
5. Wisconsin Badgers (September 3rd)
The first game of the season is always tough, but facing a tough Wisconsin team in Lambeau Field only adds to teh difficulty.
4. at Auburn Tigers (September 24th)
Auburn is looking to get back on track after an underachieving 2015 season, and they're especially looking to get revenge after LSU's Leonard Fournette ran all over them. The Tigers will have to play their best in this "measuring stick" game.
3. at Florida Gators (October 8th)
The Swamp is one of the toughest places to play in the country for a reason, and if they get good quarterback play, they have the overall talent to win the SEC.
2. Ole Miss Rebels (October 22nd)
Ole Miss blew out LSU last year in Oxford, and the Tigers are looking for revenge. Even though the Rebels lost several of their top players to the NFL, they still expect to compete for the SEC West title.
1. Alabama Crimson Tide (November 5th)
Alabama and LSU are the two favorites to win the SEC West, and as has been the case over the past decade, the winner will usually win the division - and the SEC as a whole. Plus, Alabama has won five in a row over the Tigers. LSU will bring their A-game in this one.
PREDICTION: 4-1 - I think this is the year LSU finally beats Alabama and claims the SEC West title, but it's hard to see them running through the SEC gauntlet completely unblemished. That may come on the road against Florida.
Follow our LSU Tigers news page for all the latest LSU football news!
Back to the LSU Tigers Newsfeed