FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. — After a much-needed bye week following a major upset against the Tennessee Volunteers, the Hogs will return to Razorback Stadium for the Battle of the Boot on Oct. 19.
The rivalry game against the 8th-ranked LSU Tigers dates back to 1901, however, it didn't really pick up steam until 1996 when the Boot trophy was created. The two teams have played every season since 1992 with every game played in November. That was until last year when the SEC rivals played in September for the first time. Once again, the highly-anticipated game will be played outside of November.
The series hasn't gone in the Hogs' favor lately, winning only nine of 26 matchups since the Boot was introduced in '96 and 1 of the last 8. In the last eight games against the Tigers, the Hogs have only secured one win in 2021 when the 25th-ranked Hogs won an OT battle in Baton Rouge 16-13.
The Tigers, 5-1, are coming off of a big win against the then 9th-ranked Ole Miss Rebels at home 29-26. LSU is fifth in the nation in sacks, second in the power five with 21 on the year, and seven alone from Defensive End Braydn Swinson. As for the other side of the ball, they have only given up two sacks, so getting to the QB will be a challenge for the Hogs defense who has an easy time getting there against the Vols.
LSU's quarterback is Garrett Nussmeier who replaces Heisman Trophy winner Jayden Daniels. So far this season, he's thrown 1,989 yards and 18 touchdowns with six interceptions. The leading receiver for the Tigers is Kyren Lacy who has 463 yards and six touchdowns on the year.
LSU's one loss came in week one when they fell to the USC Trojans in Las Vegas, 27-20. They were up for much of the game, but the Trojans led a last-minute scoring drive, giving them the win.
As for the Hogs, they come into this matchup 4-2 and have one of the best wins in college football under their belt, taking down #4 Tennessee at home.
A major concern for the Hogs this week is Taylen Green's availability. Green went out in the second half of the Tennessee game with an injury and didn't return. Malachi Nelson took the remainder of the snaps, including the game-winning touchdown run late in the fourth quarter. However, according to Sam Pittman on Monday, Green is likely to be back on the field Saturday. He said they will know more on Tuesday or Wednesday.
The Hogs will look for yet another ranked win at home on Saturday taking on the 8th-ranked team in the nation, the LSU Tigers. Kick-off is set for 6 p.m. and will be airing on ESPN.
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