SEC contenders are set to clash this weekend in Nashville. Both LSU and Vanderbilt enter Week 8 with one loss, a dangerous place to be in the top-heavy SEC. Now, these conference foes will attempt to earn their sixth win of the season.
Which names will step up on Saturday? These are the top college football player props to consider at DraftKings Sportsbook for Week 8’s matchup between the LSU Tigers and the Vanderbilt Commodores.
#17 Vanderbilt enters this contest as 2.5-point favorites over #10 LSU, with the over/under set at 48.5 points on DraftKings Sportsbook.
LSU vs. Vanderbilt best prop bets
Garrett Nussmeier 260+ passing yards (-112)
Despite entering the season with high expectations, Garrett Nussmeier has disappointed so far. Through six games, the quarterback has thrown for 1,413 yards and nine touchdowns while surrendering five interceptions. That lack of ball security isn’t ideal for any passer, let alone a senior. In theory, LSU head coach Brian Kelly may opt for a run-heavy approach this week. However, that may prove difficult against Vanderbilt’s defensive line. The Commodores have allowed the SEC’s fifth-fewest rushing yards per game to opponents (90.8).
If Vandy is able to take away the ground game, LSU’s offense will become one-dimensional. That means a ton of passes for Nussmeier. As bad as things have looked at times, this is still a potential first-round NFL Draft pick. In addition, he leads the conference with 204 passing attempts. That’s with the Tigers leading in most of their contests this season. If the team finds itself trailing in the second half, who knows what Nussmeier’s usage will be? I’m expecting LSU’s star signal caller to turn things around on Saturday.
Sedrick Alexander 48+ rushing yards (-119)
Much like their opponents, Vanderbilt will want to establish a strong presence on the ground. Going up against a dangerous secondary, deep passes could be at a premium this afternoon. Unlike LSU, the Commodores possess a scrambling quarterback in Diego Pavia. The senior has gained 352 rushing yards and two touchdowns through six games. However, these Tigers have had success against similar signal callers. Capable dual-threats such as Cade Klubnik and La’Norris Sellers were both held in check by LSU this season.
If Pavia can’t generate much with his legs, a more traditional approach might work. Running back Sedrick Alexander has been a steadying force in Vandy’s backfield. Over 50 rush attempts, the junior has gained 319 yards and five touchdowns (6.4 YPC). There’s a good argument that he should receive more touches going forward. On only four carries, Alexander gashed Alabama for 76 yards and a score. If the Commodores jump out to an early lead, they should lean on their underrated running back.
