LSU’s defense rose to the occasion in the second half shutting down a high-powered Mississippi State offense. The Bulldogs quickly got out to a 13-0 lead in the first half, but the defense was able to make the much-needed adjustments. B.J. Ojulari and Jay Ward both received player of the week honors for their performance this past Saturday night.
B.J. Ojulari Named SEC Defensive Lineman of the Week
Ojulari recorded 2.5 tackles for loss, two hurries and 1.5 sacks on Saturday night against the Bulldog defense. The Marietta, Georgia native was able to put pressure on Will Rogers for a good portion of the game. The star defensive lineman also added on four total tackles (three solo tackles).
Ojulari and the defensive front stood tall on multiple cases where Mike Leach decided to go for it on fourth down. LSU’s defensive front was able to hold the line and be able to turn Mississippi State’s offense over on downs three times.
The Bulldogs were held to 75 rushing yards on the night as the Tiger defensive front stiffened Mississippi State. The only big run that the Bulldogs offense had was on the 37-yard touchdown run by Jo’quavious Marks.
Jay Ward Named SEC Defensive Player of the Week
Ward led the Tigers in tackles and had a fourth quarter interception on Saturday night. The fourth quarter interception sealed the win for LSU as they moved to 2-1 overall and 1-0 in conference play.
The Moultrie, Georgia native recorded 11 total tackles (five solo tackles), 1.5 tackles for loss, one pass deflection and an interception. Ward and the LSU secondary held Mississippi State’s air-raid attack to just 214 passing yards on the night. The Tiger secondary was able to buckle down on the Bulldogs top receivers and keep their offense in the game.
The star safety showed his veteran presence on the field and was one of the bright spots on the Tiger defense in Saturday night’s SEC showdown against Mississippi State.
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