The LSU Tigers started the season hot, but a loss to Alabama caused the wheels to come off and ruin their College Football Playoff hopes. LSU finished the year 9-3, including an impressive 56-27 bowl win over Texas Tech. Three straight losses nearly cost head coach Les Miles his job, but he's back with expectations of competing for an SEC title. With that in mind, here are 3 Reasons Why LSU Can Win The SEC Next Season:
3. Little Talent Leaving
The Tigers aren't losing much next season. Only one starter, OT Vadal Alexander is leaving on offense, assuming no one makes a surprise move to go pro. Dangerous WR Malachi Dupree is back, among other notable weapons (see below). Just three starters of the defense are seniors, although CB Tre'Davious White could leave early. LSU constantly brings in great defensive recruits and that will help make up for the limited losses on that side of the ball. With so few starters leaving off a strong team, LSU is primed for a great season.
2. Improved Brandon Harris
Harris is far from polished as a passer, but he's getting better. He showed improvement as the season went along and another year of development will go a long way for him. LSU isn't going to win the SEC if Harris doesn't improve, but there's reason to expect that he'll be better than ever next year. Alabama, LSU's biggest competition for the SEC West title, will have a major question mark at QB. If Harris can provide steady, turnover-free play, the Tigers will be in position to win the SEC.
1. Leonard Fournette
For LSU to win the SEC, Fournette must play as well as he did this year. On 300 carries, he racked up an impressive 1,953 yards and 22 yards. He was limited against Alabama, which played a big role in the team's loss. However, Fournette should be able to put the offense on his back and carry them for much of the season. If he gets just a little but of help from the returning talent and Harris, he can get LSU the SEC title the team so desperately wants.