LSU will face a significant challenge in their upcoming game against Ole Miss, as they will be without their top running back, Caden Durham. Durham, a key offensive player for the Tigers, has been ruled out due to an ankle injury sustained in their previous game against Southeastern Louisiana. Despite being listed as questionable throughout the week, it has been confirmed that Durham will not play.
Durham has been a vital component of LSU’s offensive strategy, leading the team’s backfield with 52 carries, 213 yards, and two touchdowns over the course of four games. His absence will force the Tigers to rely more heavily on other running backs, Harlem Berry and Ju’Juan Johnson, who have not matched Durham’s level of productivity.
Head coach Brian Kelly emphasized the importance of giving Durham as much time as possible to recover, stating, “Time. It’s really an element of time. He wants to play, so we told him the only way this is gonna work is if we give you the whole week and right up to game time.”
In Durham’s absence, Johnson is expected to step up, having shown promise in last week’s game by rushing for two touchdowns and 43 yards. Berry, who has accumulated 87 yards on 15 carries in the first four weeks, might also see increased action as part of the rotation.
Despite Durham’s contributions, LSU’s overall rushing performance this season has been underwhelming, ranking 112th nationally in rushing yards per game. Some of this can be attributed to the offensive line, which has struggled to create consistent running lanes.
LSU momentarily relieved its offensive struggles in their recent game against a weaker opponent, but their upcoming match against a top-ranked SEC team presents a more formidable test. The Tigers are aiming to improve upon their early season statistics which placed them at the bottom among undefeated teams in key offensive metrics.
Without Durham, LSU’s task becomes more arduous as they seek to enhance their offensive efficiency and secure victory against a formidable Ole Miss squad.