LSU returns to the football field this weekend for its annual scrimmage to conclude spring practice, with significant roster and coaching changes and work in progress for a historic 2024 football season. For the first time, fans will see the team in action.
Defense was a serious concern for LSU, which ranked 105th nationally in total production a year ago, and the school brought in Blake Baker from Missouri to coordinate the unit. Heisman Trophy-winning quarterback Jaden Daniels is also one of the few key offensive players to leave.
Here's what to watch as LSU enters this weekend's spring game.
LSU Football Spring Game 2024 Schedule
when: Saturday, April 13th
time: 1pm Central
tv set: ESPN+/SECN+
RELATED: LSU Football Schedule 2024
run game
LSU led college football a year ago with 6.2 yards per carry thanks to quarterback Jayden Daniels' two-way ability. Without him, the Tigers' rushing attack will look very different, and Brian Kelly promises a lot of versatility as a showcase in the backfield with Josh Williams and Caleb Jackson.
Jackson ran for 284 yards on 55 attempts, and Williams scored four times on 31 carries last season as a backup to Logan Diggs. LSU wants to run the ball well for Garrett Nussmeyer to stick around, but Kelly also wants to work on his back in the passing game.
secondary
LSU needs to field another talented wide receiver, which should be a good test for the Tigers' coverage corners.
Sophomores Ashton Stamps and Javien Tobiano have made first-team appearances so far this spring, with Jardine Gilbert, a transfer from A&M, playing safety and Sage Ryan playing nickel. Freshman P.J. Woodward also received positive reviews from Baker. This is your chance to make a good impression on them and get an edge on the depth chart.
defense line
The losses of Marson Smith and Mekhi Wingo, as well as some of the transfers, were a big blow to LSU's defensive interior line, leaving the team with very limited options and experience in the middle of the front seven alignment. .
The Tigers need options and creativity, as they rank third from the bottom in the SEC in pass-and-run, which is already a weak point for the team. No matter what happens this weekend, expect LSU to search the transfer portal for more of both.
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