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Texas A&M’s offense showed flashes against Kentucky. The problem was what happened after those flashes.

The Aggies produced 423 total yards in the 31-21 loss, but Marcel Reed threw two interceptions and too many promising possessions stalled before reaching the end zone.

MORE: ESPN Gives LSU Clear Edge Over Texas A&M In Baton Rouge Showdown

That formula won’t work Saturday night in Baton Rouge against an LSU defense that has been one of the nation’s toughest units through three games.

The Tigers are allowing just 33 rushing yards per game and only 1.2 yards per carry, while piling up 14 sacks. That puts enormous pressure on Texas A&M to stay out of obvious passing situations.

The first priority is simple: Reed has to take better care of the football.

He completed 26 of 49 passes for 236 yards against Kentucky, but his two interceptions helped derail an offense that otherwise moved the ball effectively.

Mike Elko has continued to back his quarterback, and Reed doesn’t need to become conservative. He does need to know when a play is over.

Against LSU’s pass rush, throwing the ball away or taking a short completion can be more valuable than forcing something downfield.

The second challenge is finding any kind of running game.

Texas A&M averages 171.7 rushing yards, but LSU has made opponents almost completely one-dimensional. Offensive coordinator Holmon Wiggins can’t simply abandon the run and allow the Tigers to attack Reed all night.

Reed’s mobility should be part of the answer. He led A&M with 80 rushing yards against Kentucky, and designed quarterback runs or scrambles could help slow LSU’s pressure.

Finally, Mario Craver needs help.

Craver was A&M’s most productive receiver last week, finishing with 11 catches for 119 yards. He should remain a major part of the game plan, but LSU can make life difficult if Reed becomes overly dependent on one target.

Texas A&M needs additional receivers and running backs to win individual matchups, particularly on third down and in scoring territory.

The Aggies don’t necessarily need an offensive explosion.

MORE: Ex Aggies Star De’Von Achane Emerges as Buy-Low Candidate After Slow Start

They need fewer wasted possessions.

Against a defense this disruptive, protecting the football, staying balanced and turning long drives into touchdowns could determine whether Texas A&M leaves Death Valley with a season-changing win.

More at NCAAF College Football News, Photos, Stats, Scores, Schedule & Videos

NCAAF College Football News, Photos, Stats, Scores, Schedule & Videos...

Texas A&M’s offense showed flashes against Kentucky. The problem was what happened after those flashes.

The Aggies produced 423 total yards in the 31-21 loss, but Marcel Reed threw two interceptions and too many promising possessions stalled before reaching the end zone.

MORE: ESPN Gives LSU Clear Edge Over Texas A&M In Baton Rouge Showdown

That formula won’t work Saturday night in Baton Rouge against an LSU defense that has been one of the nation’s toughest units through three games.

The Tigers are allowing just 33 rushing yards per game and only 1.2 yards per carry, while piling up 14 sacks. That puts enormous pressure on Texas A&M to stay out of obvious passing situations.

The first priority is simple: Reed has to take better care of the football.

He completed 26 of 49 passes for 236 yards against Kentucky, but his two interceptions helped derail an offense that otherwise moved the ball effectively.

Mike Elko has continued to back his quarterback, and Reed doesn’t need to become conservative. He does need to know when a play is over.

Against LSU’s pass rush, throwing the ball away or taking a short completion can be more valuable than forcing something downfield.

The second challenge is finding any kind of running game.

Texas A&M averages 171.7 rushing yards, but LSU has made opponents almost completely one-dimensional. Offensive coordinator Holmon Wiggins can’t simply abandon the run and allow the Tigers to attack Reed all night.

Reed’s mobility should be part of the answer. He led A&M with 80 rushing yards against Kentucky, and designed quarterback runs or scrambles could help slow LSU’s pressure.

Finally, Mario Craver needs help.

Craver was A&M’s most productive receiver last week, finishing with 11 catches for 119 yards. He should remain a major part of the game plan, but LSU can make life difficult if Reed becomes overly dependent on one target.

Texas A&M needs additional receivers and running backs to win individual matchups, particularly on third down and in scoring territory.

The Aggies don’t necessarily need an offensive explosion.

MORE: Ex Aggies Star De’Von Achane Emerges as Buy-Low Candidate After Slow Start

They need fewer wasted possessions.

Against a defense this disruptive, protecting the football, staying balanced and turning long drives into touchdowns could determine whether Texas A&M leaves Death Valley with a season-changing win.

More at NCAAF College Football News, Photos, Stats, Scores, Schedule & Videos