LSU vs. UCLA live stream, where to watch, TV channel, odds, spread, prediction, picks

Two teams trying to calm the swirling storm clouds hanging over their programs meet on Saturday in the bayou. LSU returns to Tiger Stadium after a grueling comeback win at South Carolina and UCLA simply tries to regain its footing after a disappointing first three weeks of the DeShaun Foster era.

But that doesn't mean LSU is necessarily downcast after defeating South Carolina in an entertaining 36-33 win. The Tigers rallied from a 17-point deficit to complete the second-largest comeback on the road in school history.

“The energy and focus were different. It felt like a freedom game and everyone was of the opinion that if we make a mistake, it's OK,” said Bradyn Swinson, LSU defensive end and the Tigers' leader in sacks with three.

While No. 16 LSU (2-1) at least seems to know its strengths, UCLA (1-1) is struggling to find its identity with new coordinators. The Bruins have scored just 28 points in two games combined – the program's slowest start in five years – and the defense was ripped to shreds in a 42-13 loss to Indiana last week. The Hoosiers moved the ball at will and didn't punt until the final series of the game in the Rose Bowl.

“The guys are eager to get out here and play because we need to get better,” Foster said this week. “It's different when you have to force them to get better, and I don't have to do that as often.”

How to watch LSU vs UCLA live

Date: Saturday, September 21 | Time: 3:40 p.m. ET
Location: Tiger Stadium – Baton Rouge, Louisiana
TV: ABCs | Live stream: fubo (try for free)

Save $30 on your first month of Fubo! For a limited time, you can get your first month of Fubo for just $49.99. Stream ESPN, ABC, CBS, FOX, NBC, and 200+ top channels of live TV and sports without cable. (Participating plans only. Taxes and fees may apply.)

LSU vs. UCLA: What you need to know

UCLA’s offense is weakening: UCLA has a fifth-year quarterback in Ethan Garbers, a solid roster of running backs and a respected offensive coordinator. But the offense is far from successful, ranking last in the Big Ten in scoring. The running game in particular has struggled, ranking 122nd nationally (83.5 yards per game) against a schedule that included Hawaii and Indiana. Perhaps the Bruins can found a running game against an LSU defense that allows a surprising 154 yards per game on the ground (89th in the FBS) and eight touchdowns (last in the FBS). Nothing seems to be going right for the Bruins, whose passing efficiency is among the worst in the country (126th).

LSU’s defense is inconsistent: After an impressive season-opening performance against USC, we expected much more from the Tigers' defense, but last week's close result at South Carolina gives us pause. The Gamecocks jumped out to a 17-0 lead this week despite LSU forcing two turnovers in the first half. The Tigers allowed 12 explosive plays, including seven runs of 10 yards. After three weeks, they allowed 6.6 yards per rushing attempt. This is a perfect week to get the defense in shape against a subpar offense.

The Bruins have players on the D-line: If you're looking for a bright spot for the Bruins and a potential game-changer in Baton Rouge, look at UCLA's defensive line. The Bruins appear to apply pressure well and rank 28th nationally in rush defense (87 yards per game). The unit has 15 tackles for loss, though 11 of those came in the 16-13 win over Hawaii in the season opener. Kain Medrano leads the team with four tackles for loss and starting tackle Keanu Williams could be out with injury. LSU has one of the worst rushing success rates in the country without John Emery (ACL), so UCLA could have an advantage in the trenches.

LSU vs. UCLA Tips

UCLA is dealing with an identity crisis as it leaves the Chip Kelly era behind, and DeShaun Watson seemingly has a lot of work to do to make his mark as a head coach and schemer. LSU can win in many different ways, and with an offense that can score 30 or more points against any opponent, UCLA will have a hard time slowing down the Tigers in Death Valley. Garrett Nussmeier should have a field day throwing the ball against UCLA's secondary. Selection: Under 56.5

What college football picks can you confidently make in Week 4? Visit SportsLine to see which teams will win and cover the spread — all based on a proven computer model that has returned well over $2,000 in profit since its inception — and find out.