LSU’s coaching staff has been talking up this season as the one that it finally … after promising many times … will open things up offensively. I’m not sure Joe Burrow can be the guy under center to transform the offense into a force, though.

Alabama is a near-certain loss at this point; the road trip to Texas will be a big challenge; the Florida game is always a tough task; Texas A&M should be better in Year 2 with Jimbo Fisher and Auburn’s defensive front is nasty.

A nine-win season seems likely, but I’ll lean more toward the under if I’m forced to make a bet on the Tigers.