The case for Murray. He's faced one of the conference's best defenses in South Carolina and comes into this game as the conference's top rated passer. Actually, the Gamecocks are only the seventh best passing defense in the SEC, but Murray and his offensive mates handled the pass rush and the secondary expertly. Plus, Murray's at home and should give LSU a real test through the air.
The case for Mettenberger. He's a hot quarterback right now, mostly do to the early returns from the arrival of offensive coordinator Cam Cameron. Last year Mett's rating was a pedestrian 125. Through four games this season he's up to 193 and ranked third in the conference. Cameron's run first system sets up well for his quarterback's skills to take shots when he can get them and rely on the skill players around him. He's already nearly surpassed last season's touchdown total with 10 scores and he's only tossed one pick in 91 attempts. Plus, playing in familiar surroundings in Athens as his first real road test of the season should help him to settle in and make good, accurate decisions with the ball.
Advantage: Murray. While it's a nice storyline for Zach that he's doing so well under Cameron, Murray meanwhile is in his fifth season under one system. He'll manage the game a lot easier with the home crowd as a backdrop and he'll find holes in a youthful LSU defense as long as 1.) his line gives him time, and 2.) Gurley has success running the football. And I think both of those things happen tomorrow.
