LSU Faces Mississippi State Amid Kiffin Scrutiny

LSU is 4-2 after a win over Texas A&M was followed by losses to Ole Miss and Kentucky, including a 35-34 overtime defeat at Kentucky that intensified scrutiny of Lane Kiffin’s first season and the program’s championship expectations. Kiffin was questioned for punting on fourth-and-short late in regulation while leading; he said LSU had chances to finish the game on both sides of the ball. The No. 22 Tigers host No. 16 Mississippi State in a pivotal game for regaining momentum and keeping their College Football Playoff hopes alive. Mississippi State quarterback Kamario Taylor and leading rusher Fluff Bothwell are listed as doubtful. LSU needs more consistent play from quarterback Sam Leavitt, who has thrown an interception in every game, and a stronger defensive showing from freshman pass rusher Deuce Geralds; with Trey’Dez Green sidelined, wide receiver Roman Mothershed has taken on tight-end duties. Alabama, Texas and Tennessee remain on LSU’s schedule.