It was an ominous start by LSU. The Tigers host of power hitters were flustered by the off speed pitches of Rice starter Mike Ojala. And, the Tigers contributed to their early malaise with three errors. Ironically, the three errors were the most by LSU in a game since an NCAA tournament loss to Rice in 2005.
Before the start of the Super Regional, LSU head coach Paul Mainieri said his team could find many ways to win. He was prophetic in game 1. LSU pieced together a 6 run 5th to finally get the lead.
Mainieri has made many good decisions from the dugout. And, he did again in the 5th. When the Tigers put the first two men on in the 5th, Mainieri chose to let D.J LeMaheiu hit away, passing on a bunt. LeMaheiu delivered, touching off LSU's big inning.
LSU is in perfect spot. With one game in its pocket, and its best and most experienced pitcher Louis Coleman starting game 2 Satuday afternoon.