The LSU Tigers will host Southern University Tuesday afternoon at Alex Box Stadium for an exciting in-state matchup.

The LSU Tigers are gearing up for an exciting in-state rivalry game as they prepare to face Southern University on Tuesday afternoon at Alex Box Stadium. This annual matchup between the two Baton Rouge-based teams is more than just a baseball game; it represents a deep-rooted tradition of competition, community pride, and a showcase of the remarkable talent that the state of Louisiana produces. With LSU being a powerhouse in collegiate baseball and Southern University striving to make its mark in the sport, the game promises to deliver high energy, fierce competition, and a chance to make a statement for both programs.

In this column, we will take a deep dive into what makes this game so special, explore the history behind the rivalry, and look ahead to what we can expect from both teams in this highly anticipated matchup at Alex Box Stadium.

A History of Louisiana College Baseball Rivalries

Louisiana is a state that takes great pride in its college baseball programs. From Baton Rouge to Lafayette, to the shores of Lake Charles, baseball is more than just a pastime—it’s a way of life. The fierce competition between LSU and Southern University has a long history, and these teams have faced off on the diamond numerous times over the years.

While LSU, with its rich baseball tradition, stands as one of the most decorated programs in NCAA history, Southern University has established itself as a respected team in its own right. Southern’s baseball program has seen growth over the years, and the Jaguars are working hard to elevate their status in the Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC) and beyond.

The annual game between LSU and Southern is a reflection of the state’s passion for baseball and the pride both universities have in their athletic programs. For Southern, the game offers an opportunity to showcase its talent against one of the most successful programs in college baseball. For LSU, it is a chance to solidify its dominance in the state and continue to build momentum toward its goals for the season.

LSU’s Baseball Legacy

LSU baseball is one of the most successful and storied programs in the history of college sports. The Tigers have claimed six NCAA National Championships, numerous SEC titles, and a reputation as a perennial contender for the College World Series. With legendary coaches like Skip Bertman, Paul Mainieri, and the current head coach, Jay Johnson, LSU has consistently been at the forefront of collegiate baseball. The program’s history of success has created an atmosphere of high expectations, both within the team and among fans.

LSU’s Alex Box Stadium stands as one of the premier baseball facilities in the country, and it is known for its electrifying atmosphere. The stadium has witnessed countless moments of brilliance, from walk-off home runs to legendary pitching performances. Fans flock to the stadium for every game, making the experience of watching LSU baseball one of the most thrilling in college sports.

This year, the Tigers are once again poised to make a deep run in the NCAA Tournament, and their performance in midweek games like this one against Southern is crucial in building team chemistry, gaining momentum, and giving younger players opportunities to shine. LSU’s depth of talent and national prominence make them the heavy favorites in this matchup, but Southern University will be looking to surprise and make a statement.

Southern University’s Baseball Program

Southern University’s baseball program has a rich history of its own, though it is often overshadowed by LSU’s dominance in the sport. However, in recent years, the Jaguars have made significant strides under head coach Chris Crenshaw. Southern University competes in the Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC), a league that has produced talented players who have gone on to make a mark in professional baseball.

While the Jaguars may not have the same national profile as LSU, they have consistently been one of the top teams in the SWAC. The Jaguars’ roster is composed of talented players who bring passion and energy to the field. For Southern, playing LSU represents one of the highlights of their season—a chance to compete against one of the best and prove they can hang with the big dogs.

The rivalry with LSU provides Southern with an opportunity to show their resilience, talent, and determination. A strong showing in this game would not only boost the Jaguars’ confidence but could also serve as a stepping stone for greater success in the SWAC and beyond. In a game like this, Southern’s players know they have the chance to make a statement that will resonate for years to come.

Key Players to Watch

As we look ahead to the Tuesday afternoon game, there are a few key players from both teams that will be crucial to the outcome. Let’s take a closer look at some of the players to watch for in this matchup.

LSU Tigers

1. Dylan Crews (OF): Crews is one of the top players in college baseball and has the potential to be a top draft pick in the MLB. Known for his power at the plate, Crews is a key contributor to LSU’s offensive lineup. His ability to get on base, hit for power, and drive in runs will be a significant factor in LSU’s success in this game.
2. Paul Skenes (RHP): Skenes is one of LSU’s standout pitchers and has been dominant on the mound this season. His fastball velocity and ability to mix pitches make him a tough opponent for any lineup. If Skenes gets the start on Tuesday, expect him to set the tone early and keep the Southern hitters off balance.
3. Trey Morgan (1B): Morgan has been a consistent performer for LSU, providing stability in the field and at the plate. His ability to drive in runs and make plays at first base will be crucial in securing the win for LSU.
4. Tommy White (3B): White has quickly become one of LSU’s most impactful hitters. His ability to hit for power and provide a spark in the lineup makes him a player to watch as LSU looks to build momentum heading into the rest of the season.

Southern University Jaguars

1. Juwan O’Neal (OF): O’Neal is one of Southern’s top hitters and a key player for the Jaguars. His ability to reach base and make solid contact will be vital for Southern if they are to put together a competitive game against LSU.
2. Tyler Dunbar (INF): Dunbar has been a key contributor for Southern in the infield, both with the bat and in the field. His defense will be essential in keeping LSU’s potent lineup in check, while his bat could provide some much-needed runs for the Jaguars.
3. Deon Smith (P): Smith has been a standout pitcher for Southern and will likely be called upon to start or play a significant role in the game. If he can hold LSU’s offense in check, Southern will have a chance to pull off an upset. His performance on the mound could be the key to keeping the game competitive.
4. Ramon Anderson (C): Anderson has been a consistent force in the lineup for the Jaguars, and his presence behind the plate adds an important leadership element to the team. His ability to control the game behind the plate and help his pitchers navigate LSU’s offense will be crucial.

The Importance of Midweek Games

While LSU’s season is defined by SEC play and their aspirations for a College World Series berth, midweek games like this one against Southern are important in maintaining momentum. For LSU, the goal is to win every game, regardless of the opponent. These midweek matchups offer a chance for LSU to experiment with different lineups, give young players more playing time, and build depth across the roster.

For Southern, the game is more than just a regular-season contest—it’s an opportunity to test themselves against a national powerhouse. Games like this can serve as a benchmark for smaller programs, providing valuable experience that can be used to improve and grow in future seasons.

The Rivalry’s Impact on the Community

In addition to the on-field competition, the LSU-Southern matchup holds significance for the local Baton Rouge community. These two schools are located just miles apart, and their rivalry fosters a sense of local pride. Families, alumni, and students from both schools pack the stadium, filling the stands with energy and excitement. The game brings together fans from all walks of life, creating an electric atmosphere at Alex Box Stadium.

Moreover, these types of games are a reminder of the importance of college athletics in shaping local culture and providing a sense of community. Regardless of the outcome, the LSU-Southern rivalry is something that will continue to unite Baton Rouge residents for years to come.