Five LSU Players Will Make the Difference Against Texas

Trey’Dez Green Stabilizes the Passing Attack

Trey’Dez Green has slowly been increasing his production for the Tigers since returning from injury. During the Tigers’ 32-24 loss to Ole Miss on Sept. 19, the tight end sustained a knee injury. Green avoided surgery, but he sat out four contests for the Tigers prior to his Oct. 24 return against Auburn.

In his return, Green logged 5 receptions for 50 yards. His production increased against Alabama, where he caught 10 passes for 85 yards for the Tigers. LSU needs Green to continue to establish his presence at 6’7″ against Texas’ secondary for the Tigers to be successful in the passing game.

Jordan Seaton Faces Pass Rush Test

Offensive tackle Jordan Seaton arrived in Baton Rouge as the No. 3 overall transfer in 2026. Throughout the Tigers’ nine games, Seaton has been a stalwart protecting Sam Leavitt’s blindside, conceding only 1 sack.

Seaton must defend Leavitt against the Longhorns' Colin Simmons, who leads the FBS with 1.50 sacks per game.

Princewill Umanmielen Chases the Pocket

In 2026, senior transfer Princewill Umanmielen has recorded 8.5 sacks for the Tigers, a total that ties him for eighth in the FBS while maintaining an average of 0.94 sacks per game.

It is vital that Umanmielen puts pressure on the quarterback, as the Texas offensive line has encountered difficulties keeping Arch Manning safe in the pocket.

The Longhorns have given up 27 sacks for 181 yards lost through nine games. Umanmielen needs to add to that number for the Tigers.

Sam Leavitt Controls Decision Making

Leavitt has been his own worst enemy this season. The Tigers’ signal-caller has surrendered 9 interceptions this year, a streak that includes at least one turnover in each of the team’s opening six matchups.

He has also been sacked 15 times due to his indecisiveness in the pocket. LSU’s primary playmaker must locate open targets downfield with haste, otherwise he risks turning the ball over to a Texas squad boasting the No. 1 transfer wide receiver in Cam Coleman.

TJ Dottery Anchors Defensive Front

LSU linebacker TJ Dottery leads the team in total tackles with 70. The mark is 19 more than Davhon Keys’ 51 total tackles for second place.

Dottery's tackles helped make the Tigers the No. 6 team in total defense and No. 7 team in rush defense in the FBS. To find success, the Tigers must rely on Dottery to neutralize a Longhorns ground attack that puts up 131.2 yards per game.