We’re just one day away from the 2023 Battle for the Boot, as LSU football vs. Arkansas will take place Saturday at 6:00 p.m. CST. Here, we’ll look at two x-factors (Chris Hilton Jr and Andre Sam) who could play a significant part in tomorrow’s outcome.
Two X-Factors for LSU football vs. Arkansas
Redshirt sophomore WR Chris Hilton Jr
When it comes to wide receiver Chris Hilton Jr, it’s not so much a matter of if, but rather when. The former four-star recruit out of Zachary, LA, has always possessed the talent, but it’s just been a matter of putting the pieces together.
In 2023, he’s easily one of the fastest players on the LSU football team, regardless of position. However, according to coach Brian Kelly, the biggest concern has been finding consistency with catching the ball.
So far in 2023, he’s recorded just four receptions, but his efficiency is through the roof. With 62 yards and one touchdown on the year, he’s averaging over 15 yards per reception.
If the Tigers can get him the ball for this LSU football vs. Arkansas matchup, he can break the game wide open.
Senior S Andre Sam
Nearly one full week ago, LSU football received some heartbreaking news ahead of the Tigers’ matchup vs. Mississippi State. Greg Brooks Jr was announced as “OUT” with what, at the time, was known to be a medical emergency.
We now understand that Brooks Jr needed to undergo an emergency surgery to remove a “large brain tumor.” The graduate safety had been experiencing dizziness throughout the early portions of this season, which we now know to be linked to the tumor.
The veteran safety began his career with the Arkansas Razorbacks before transferring to Baton Rouge last offseason. With LSU football vs. Arkansas set to face off this weekend, there’s no doubt both programs are holding him close to their hearts.
In terms of what this means for the game itself, LSU football is without a leader of the defense and their starting safety. Last week, senior Andre Sam filled in and made a solid impact vs. the Bulldogs.
He recorded four tackles and one pass deflection, bringing his total up to 14 tackles on the year.
If the Tigers want to come out on top, Sam must be a big part of the defense. He joined the team this year through the transfer portal and is officially in his sixth season of college football.
If both Chris Hilton Jr and Andre Sam can combine for successful games vs. Arkansas, it could mean big things for the Tigers on Saturday.
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