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Despite being out of contention for a national title, LSU has something to hang its had on for next season: the progress of junior quarterback Zach Mettenberger. After a dominant performance against Mississippi State in LSU's 37-17 victory, it has become clear the Tigers have something with their shot-caller.
In his last two games, Mettenberger has put up his two biggest yardage totals of the season; 298 against Alabama in a loss two weekends ago and 273 against Mississippi State. The junior also threw three touchdowns in the two games and didn't have any passes intercepted. For a team like the Tigers that rely on their run game -- 37th in the nation in rushing to just 94th passing -- the progress made through the air has been refreshing.
The 8-2 Tigers, No. 7 in the latest BCS poll, take on Ole Miss this weekend and close out their season November 23 against Arkansas.