LSU had a fine run during its pre-conference schedule. So did Vanderbilt.

Both teams know that things will get significantly more challenging when they meet to open Southeastern Conference play on Saturday afternoon in Baton Rouge, La.

The Commodores (12-1) are playing just their second game on an opponent’s home court. The Tigers (11-2) are 9-0 at their place.

Despite their overwhelming win totals, these two teams are among just six from the SEC that are not in the AP Top 25.

“I think if you’re a competitor, this is what you want to be a part of,” LSU coach Matt McMahon said. “You’ve seen the SEC building toward this with 16 NCAA Tournament berths over the last two seasons.”

Neither LSU nor Vanderbilt had one of those berths, but both hope to join the party this season.

The Tigers have developed balanced scoring, with five players averaging in double-figures points, led by guards Cam Carter (16.9) and Jordan Sears (14.6).

McMahon was encouraged by his team’s ball-handling in its most recent game, a 110-45 victory against visiting Mississippi Valley State on Sunday. The Tigers had 26 assists, a season-low six turnovers and 10 steals among the 17 turnovers they forced.

Ball security will be especially important against Vanderbilt, which went into Friday’s games fifth nationally in turnover margin at plus-6.8.

The Commodores, who have scored 100 points three times, have four scorers averaging in double figures, led by guards Jason Edwards (18.8) and Devin McGlockton (11.9).

The Commodores, who beat visiting New Orleans 100-56 in their most recent game Monday night, are encouraged by former James Madison coach Mark Byington leading them to the best nonconference start by a first-year Vanderbilt coach.

“We did what we’re supposed to do in nonconference,” Byington said. “We put ourselves in position to have a chance in SEC play. The big goal is the NCAA Tournament. We don’t hide from that. We talk about winning right away. The challenge is ahead.”

–Field Level Media