Report: Defensive backfield impresses and another star returns

The recent LSU football practices have been quite eventful, with notable visits from top recruits and standout performances from some players.

For the first time this spring, LSU opened up its practice to the media, allowing them to observe the entirety of the session on March 23. This unprecedented access provided ample excitement, with no shortage of highlights throughout the duration of the practice. Additionally, media were permitted to watch the first 20 minutes of practice.

One standout aspect was the impressive showing by the defense, which appeared to operate as a tightly-knit unit with a clear understanding of their roles. The defense exhibited glimpses of the renowned LSU style: physicality, intensity, and spirited exchanges of banter.

Here are a few observations gleaned from these recent practices:

Offense

Quarterback Garrett Nussmeier took the reins of the first team during the recent practices, showcasing several promising moments. However, he encountered some challenges, throwing three interceptions. It’s worth noting that these interceptions were partly attributed to adverse weather conditions, with strong winds affecting the passing game, and also due to the defense’s heightened performance as the spring camp progressed into its fourth week. Nevertheless, both the coaching staff and Nussmeier’s teammates have observed significant strides in his approach and demeanor, indicating positive development.

In the competition for the backup quarterback position, Rickie Collins and Vanderbilt transfer AJ Swann are engaged in a tight battle. Swann is anticipated to secure the backup role, leveraging his prior experience as a starting quarterback at Vanderbilt, which gives him an edge over Collins.

The first-team receiving corps comprised Kyren Lacy, Chris Hilton, and Aaron Anderson during the recent practices. Meanwhile, redshirt freshman Kyle Parker is contending with Anderson for the WR3 position and currently holds the No. 4 spot on the depth chart. Parker has impressed observers with his performance this spring.

Joining Parker, Liberty transfer CJ Daniels and Mississippi State transfer Zavion Thomas constitute the second-team group of receivers, adding depth and competition to the roster.

Kyren Lacy stole the spotlight with an extraordinary play during the recent practices, earning the title of the play of the day. Lacy showcased remarkable athleticism by leaping over safety Jardin Gilbert to make an incredible catch on a deep pass. Not only did he secure the reception, but he also managed to shake off Gilbert’s attempted tackle and sprinted into the end zone for a touchdown, leaving spectators in awe of his skill.

In positive news for the offensive line, starting right tackle Emery Jones returned to full participation on Tuesday, providing a significant boost to the unit. During Jones’ absence, Tyree Adams and Bo Bordelon had been receiving first-team reps. Offensive line coach Brad Davis expressed satisfaction with Adams’ performance in Jones’ absence, considering him a strong candidate for the backup tackle position.

The starting offensive line remains composed of Will Campbell, Garrett Dellinger, Miles Frazier, and DJ Chester at center, showcasing consistency and cohesion in their roles.

Defense

On the defensive line, Jacobian Guillory, Jalen Lee, and Savion Jones have been receiving the majority of starting reps on the interior, as expected due to the limited depth in that area. Meanwhile, Bradyn Swinson and Da’Shawn Womack have been rotating at the JACK position on the edge, accumulating significant playing time.

Among the second-team defensive line players are Preston Hickey, Shone Washington, Da’Shawn Womack, and true freshman De’Myrion Jonson, contributing to the team’s depth in the defensive front.

Linebackers All-American Harold Perkins and Greg Penn have been holding down the starting positions, with West and Whit Weeks also receiving a considerable share of reps.

The secondary exhibited an impressive performance during Saturday’s practice, showcasing exceptional speed, physicality, and engaging in spirited exchanges of banter.

Sage Ryan, a veteran safety, delivered a standout performance during the open practice, displaying excellent ball skills by intercepting Garrett Nussmeier three times, including a pick-six. Ryan’s experience and anticipation were evident throughout the practice, where he demonstrated versatility by rotating between safety and nickel positions. LSU head coach Brian Kelly’s expertise and adaptability are integral to the success of the defense.

“Sage brings a lot to the table with his speed, athleticism, and experience, which fills a depth need we had at that position,” stated Kelly, highlighting Ryan’s impact on the team.

True freshman Dashawn McBryde emerged as another standout performer, impressing with his physical attributes such as his wingspan and unique size, making it difficult for opposing receivers and tight ends to gain leverage against him.

In recent practices, Ashton Stamps and Javien Toviano have been receiving first-team reps at cornerback, while Ohio State transfer Jyaire Brown, freshman PJ Woodland, Jeremiah Hughes, and JK Johnson have been actively involved in drills under the guidance of cornerbacks coach Corey Raymond.

Although starting cornerback Zy Alexander has been present at practices, he has been engaged in rehabilitation work on the sidelines. However, Alexander’s recovery is progressing ahead of schedule, and he is expected to return for summer workouts.

While Jardin Gilbert from Texas A&M has primarily taken first-team reps at safety, Sage Ryan and Major Burns have been rotating at the STAR position. Burns, who previously played as a free safety positioned further from the line of scrimmage, will transition into more of a rover role for the upcoming season.

Kelly elaborated on the significance of the STAR position, emphasizing its versatility within the defensive structure. He described it as a role that requires coverage skills, blitzing ability, zone coverage proficiency, and strong tackling in space, while also being capable of handling tight ends at the line of scrimmage. Burns’ skill set aligns well with the requirements for this position, making him a suitable fit.