Auburn Could Enter College Football Playoff Conversation With Win Over LSU

The Auburn Tigers have an opportunity to do something pretty significant on Saturday.

After knocking off No. 1 Georgia in Athens, the Tigers now have a chance to pick up another ranked victory when LSU comes to Jordan-Hare Stadium.

And if Auburn can get it done, I think the conversation surrounding this team changes quite a bit.

During Friday's episode of First Call, Brad Law explained why another victory could put Auburn into the College Football Playoff conversation.

"The Georgia game changes the way Auburn fans feel about Alex Golesh in this program long term," Law said. "The LSU game, if Auburn wins this game tomorrow, changes the way you look at this team."

And I think that's an important distinction.

Beating Georgia showed what Golesh is capable of building at Auburn.

But beating LSU would suggest that this year's team might be capable of accomplishing more than many expected.

Law went as far as saying Auburn would have a playoff résumé with another victory, pointing to the Tigers' potential wins over two ranked opponents.

But getting past LSU won't necessarily be easy.

In fact, Lane Kiffin and his LSU Tigers might actually present a more difficult matchup for Auburn than Georgia did. And there are reasons to believe that could be the case.

LSU's offense operates differently than Georgia's, using tempo, movement, and speed to create opportunities. Quarterback Sam Leavitt also presents a challenge because of his ability to make plays with his legs.

Auburn's defense responded well against Georgia, particularly against the run, but Saturday will require another strong performance from DJ Durkin's group.

Offensively, Auburn needs to keep doing what worked against Georgia.

Byrum Brown's running ability played a significant role in the victory, and Law believes Auburn should continue giving him opportunities to make plays on the ground.

A few players that must step up if they want to pick up their second straight upset are playmakers like Jared Smith. A player who could make a difference defensively by creating pressure on Leavitt. Hopefully he is used more in that way instead of just in coverage. 

And on offense, Keshaun Singleton could have opportunities if LSU decides to devote more attention to Chas Nimrod following his performance against Georgia.

Those are all things Auburn will need to take advantage of.

Because while beating Georgia was impressive, following it with another ranked victory would be even more meaningful.

Auburn has already shown that it can compete with one of the best teams in college football, now the Tigers have an opportunity to prove that performance wasn't a one-time thing.

And if they do, the expectations for the rest of this season will certainly be different compared to how the country felt about this team before the bye week.