Lsu Tigers vs Florida State Seminoles Picks and Predictions December 3rd 2024

Florida State, LSU both search for full-game success

Florida State Seminoles and LSU Tigers are off to promising starts this season, but both teams are searching for the elusive full-game consistency that can take them to the next level. As the Seminoles (7-1) and Tigers (6-1) prepare to face off in the SEC/ACC Challenge on Tuesday in Baton Rouge, La., their recent performances highlight contrasting strengths and challenges.

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Florida State’s High-Energy Start Against Western Carolina

The Seminoles wasted no time asserting dominance in their last game, racing to a 16-3 lead within the first six minutes and coasting to a 91-57 victory against Western Carolina on November 26. Coach Leonard Hamilton commended the team’s “attack mode” mentality.

“We challenged our guys to bring the same energy every time we play, and they responded,” Hamilton said.

Florida State’s defensive intensity was a major factor, holding Western Carolina to under 60 points while tallying 15 steals and five blocked shots. The team forced 19 turnovers, further solidifying their defensive prowess.

Hamilton emphasized the correlation between turnovers and victory:

“When you get eight steals, it has been statistically proven you win 97 percent of the games. It energizes you and gives you something to shoot for.”

This approach underscores Florida State’s commitment to building an identity around pressure defense and efficient execution.

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LSU’s Resilient Second-Half Surge Against Northwestern State

In contrast, the Tigers struggled early in their latest game, trailing 26-25 at halftime against Northwestern State. However, a dominant second-half performance, fueled by a 17-0 run, propelled LSU to a 77-53 victory.

Coach Matt McMahon acknowledged the team’s sluggish start:

“I didn’t think we were very aggressive coming out on offense, but our defense kept us in the game.”

The offense came alive in the second half, with Jordan Sears leading the charge. He delivered another stellar performance, scoring 18 points and hitting six three-pointers for the second consecutive game.

Sears credited the team’s ability to dictate tempo after halftime:

“In the second half, we played to our own pace, sped them up, and you saw the result when we do our thing.”

Keys to the SEC/ACC Challenge Showdown

As Florida State and LSU prepare to clash, both teams aim to address their respective challenges:

• Florida State will focus on sustaining their high-energy starts throughout the entire game. The Seminoles’ defensive dominance and ability to force turnovers will be critical against LSU’s potent offense.
• LSU must avoid slow starts and find ways to maintain consistency on both ends of the court. If their defense can keep them competitive early, their second-half explosiveness led by players like Sears could turn the tide.

Player Spotlight: Jordan Sears vs. Florida State’s Defense

Jordan Sears will be a key player to watch for LSU. With back-to-back games of six three-pointers, he brings a hot hand to the matchup. On the other hand, Florida State’s defense, which thrives on disrupting opponents, will aim to neutralize Sears and force LSU into mistakes.

What to Expect

This matchup promises to be a clash of styles. Florida State’s defensive tenacity and fast starts will be tested against LSU’s resilience and ability to make adjustments. The outcome could hinge on which team can sustain their strengths over 40 minutes and adapt to in-game challenges.

Both teams have shown they can win in different ways, but consistency and execution will be the deciding factors in this highly anticipated SEC/ACC Challenge showdown.