Texas A&m Aggies vs Lsu Tigers Picks and Predictions January 18th 2025

Texas A&M Aims to End Losing Streak Against LSU

No. 11 Texas A&M looks to regain its momentum in the Southeastern Conference (SEC) as it hosts LSU on Saturday night in College Station, Texas. The Aggies, coming off consecutive losses, face an LSU squad eager to build on their first SEC victory.

Texas A&M: Battling Adversity

Texas A&M (13-4, 2-2 SEC) has experienced a rare stumble in its otherwise impressive season. Back-to-back losses to No. 4 Alabama and No. 8 Kentucky have revealed the challenges of navigating a tough conference schedule, especially without All-SEC guard Wade Taylor IV.

Taylor, the team’s top scorer (15.7 ppg) before his injury, has missed three games, leaving his status for Saturday uncertain. Despite his absence, the Aggies secured a hard-fought win over then-No. 17 Oklahoma but struggled against Alabama’s dynamic offense and Kentucky’s relentless pace.

Head coach Buzz Williams emphasized the pressure Kentucky’s transition game placed on his team. “They put stress on you in transition and immediately following transition,” Williams said.

In Taylor’s absence, Zhuric Phelps has stepped up in a big way, averaging 26.3 points over the past three games. His 21-point, seven-rebound performance against Kentucky solidified his role as the team’s new leading scorer (15.8 ppg). However, the Aggies must find a way to start strong and sustain energy throughout the game, as lapses have proven costly in recent losses.

LSU: Building Confidence

LSU (12-5, 1-3 SEC) enters the matchup riding the momentum of their first SEC win, a 78-74 victory over Arkansas on Tuesday. The Tigers snapped a three-game skid with an improved offensive approach, highlighted by better spacing and decision-making.

Jordan Sears, who scored 17 points against Arkansas, noted the team’s ability to stretch the defense and capitalize on opportunities. “The floor opened for us… we were able to attack the basket,” Sears said.

Cam Carter led the way with a season-high 27 points, 18 of which came in the second half. The Tigers’ stellar free-throw shooting—26-for-28 at 93%—played a crucial role in securing the win.

LSU head coach Matt McMahon praised the team’s aggressiveness in earning those opportunities. “To get [to the free-throw line] 28 times at 93 percent is just fantastic for our team,” McMahon said.

Key Matchups

1. Zhuric Phelps vs. LSU’s Defense: Phelps has been the Aggies’ offensive engine in recent games. LSU must find a way to contain him, especially in transition.
2. Cam Carter’s Scoring vs. A&M’s Defense: Carter’s breakout performance against Arkansas will be tested against Texas A&M’s physical defense.
3. Free-Throw Advantage: Both teams showcased strong free-throw shooting in their last outings. The ability to draw fouls and capitalize at the line could be a deciding factor.

History and Stakes

Texas A&M and LSU split their two meetings last season, with each team winning on the road. Saturday’s game offers the Aggies a chance to avoid their first three-game losing streak of the season and reassert their standing in the SEC. For LSU, another win would boost their confidence and keep their postseason aspirations alive.

Uncover Key Players to Watch and How Their Performances May Influence the John Wooden Award Outcome

What to Watch

As Texas A&M battles adversity without Wade Taylor IV, the pressure falls on Phelps and the supporting cast to carry the offensive load. Meanwhile, LSU must sustain the improved offensive spacing and aggressiveness that led to their win over Arkansas.

Will the Aggies bounce back, or can the Tigers build on their momentum? Saturday’s matchup promises an intense SEC battle with implications for both teams’ trajectories.