College football is unique in that a single loss could mean the difference between a conference championship appearance (or the ultimate regular-season goal, a College Football Playoff spot) and ending up in an average bowl game. The LSU Tigers have been on the wrong end too much lately, which led to Les Miles getting fired. Now, it's up to Ed Orgeron to get LSU back in the national title mix.
If the Tigers want to reach their goal of winning the SEC and competing for a College Football Playoff, they need to win some of the most challenging games on their 2017 schedule. Those games won't be easy, but they are of vital importance to LSU's playoff hopes. With that in mind, here are LSU's five toughest games in 2017.
5. vs. Arkansas Razorbacks - Nov. 11th
The Razorbacks get the edge for the fifth hardest game over teams like Texas A&M because of when it happens. The home matchup against the Arkansas comes between tough road trips to Alabama and Tennessee. That screams potential trap game and even at home it's a game that could give LSU trouble.
4. at Tennessee Volunteers - Nov. 18th
This matchup comes late in the year and both teams could either still be in their respective division races or already out. The likelihood is at least one is out, but who knows. The Vols lost plenty of talent, but Butch Jones has recruited well. That means a road game to Rocky Top will be tough.
3. at Florida Gators - Oct. 7th
Florida might not be as good as they were last year, meaning they might not win the SEC East, but a road trip to Gainesville won't be easy. There's still some bad blood between these teams after last year and going on the road will be a challenge. If LSU's offense can find success against the Gators, the LSU defense should shut down an iffy Florida offense.
2. vs. Auburn Tigers - Oct. 14th
Among the early SEC matchups, there's a chance this is a College Football Playoff elimination game. At the very least, it looks like a SEC West elimination game. Auburn has had a rough go (by their lofty standards) of late, but this team still has talent. And if QB Jarrett Stidham can be as good as he can be, Auburn will be a serious CFP threat. Even at home, this is the second-toughest matchup.
1. at Alabama Crimson Tide - Nov. 4th
This one should be no surprise. LSU has struggled with Alabama in recent years, with six straight losses. Going on the road makes it even tougher. The bright side is that LSU does get Alabama following a bye. Still, there's no doubt Alabama is the toughest matchup for LSU this year.
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