LSU Football: Three Tigers to Monitor in Week 4 Against Arkansas

No. 12 LSU will take on the Arkansas Razorbacks in Week 4 with the Tigers looking to carry their momentum from last week’s victory over Mississippi State in Starkville.

For Brian Kelly’s program, this group is hitting its stride at the right time as SEC play ramps up with KJ Jefferson and Co. heading to town.

LSU must see production from their front seven once again in order to limit explosive plays from the Razorbacks.

Who must rise to the occasion?

Three Tigers to Watch:

Brian Thomas Jr. - Wide Receiver

It was LSU wide receiver Malik Nabers who stole the show against Mississippi State in Week 3 with 13 receptions for 269 yards and two touchdowns, but fast forward to Week 4 and it will be Thomas who must step up to the plate.

Thomas shined through the first two games for LSU. It was an eye-opening performance against Florida State in the season opener and he carried his momentum into Week 3 against Grambling with an impressive first half.

With SEC play in full swing, the Tigers must see Thomas assert himself as a clearcut WR2 behind Nabers and continue producing at a high level. As the Tigers take on a Razorbacks squad with questions surrounding the secondary, it’s imperative Thomas takes advantage of his chances with Jayden Daniels evolving as a passer.

Mekhi Wingo - Defensive Line

Mekhi Wingo has arrived and is showing no signs of slowing down. With Maason Smith out for the season opener against Florida State, Wingo picked up the slack and then some against a talented Seminoles offensive line.

Through weeks two and three it was the same story. Wingo is quickly putting together an All-SEC type season for the Tigers, and with SEC play ramping up, it’s imperative he stays on the same trajectory.

He’ll face off against a mobile quarterback in KJ Jefferson on Saturday. A signal-caller who can utilize his legs in a variety of ways, Wingo must remain alert at all times against a player of his caliber. Look for Wingo to string together another impressive day for the Tigers and their defensive line.

Sai’vion Jones - Defensive End

Sticking with the defensive line, veteran Sai’vion Jones has been a bright spot for this group through the first few games. After adding over 30 pounds since the end of last season, Jones is looking physically prepared for a breakout season. It’s started through the first few weeks and has the chance to take shape against the Razorbacks.

A twitchy, powerful pass rusher, Jones will need to be on his A-game on Saturday against the Razorbacks with Jefferson at the helm. LSU must win in the trenches in order to come out on top against Arkansas and it will start with both Wingo and Jones.