The LSU coaching staff began spring camp with three major tasks – building up a depleted roster with high school players and transfers, recruiting/evaluating the players already on the roster, and choosing a starting quarterback. Coach Brian Kelly worked quickly and efficiently in constructing the 6th ranked overall recruiting class in the country, per 247sports. Kelly has given unprecedented media access to practices, and yesterday the public was finally able to see the new Tigers in the L Club Spring Game. There were plenty of encouraging moments throughout the game, but a few elements of the team stood out.

Running Back Depth

John Emery is the unquestioned leader entering his senior year and showed why yesterday. His speed was acknowledged, but the physical nature he showcased during the spring game is what separates him from the pack. Sophomores Armoni Goodwin and Tre Bradford were both decisive, explosive runners and effective receivers out of the backfield. Josh Williams, the former walk-on, was also productive and hard to tackle. Penn State transfer Noah Cain will arrive in the summer to add to an already impressive group.

DBWHO?

LSU lost Derek Stingley, Cordale Flott, Dwight McGlothern, and Elias Ricks from last year’s team; all will eventually be NFL defensive backs. The Tigers added 3 high school signees and 5 transfers to the defensive backfield in the 2022 class. UL transfer cornerback Mekhi Garner’s physical stature stood out, but more importantly his coverage skills were impressive. Returning junior Jordan Toles switched positions from safety to corner and looked comfortable at the position. LSU’s group of receivers are elite as a whole, and the defensive backs held their own. Transfers from Oklahoma State and Ohio State, Jarrick Bernard-Converse and Sevyn Banks, respectively, will be available in the summer to add to a talented group. Both received All Conference honors at their previous stops.

Quarterback Depth

Myles Brennan has proven he’s capable of playing at high level. Jayden Daniels threw for almost 3,000 yards with a 17-2 TD-INT ratio as a true freshman at Arizona State. Sophomore Garrett Nussmeier outplayed both of them yesterday. I can’t say that Nuss is the best candidate to start after watching one practice, but his touch, timing, and decision making was a step above the competition. I will say that each quarterback is talented and capable of winning. Freshman Walker Howard was not as polished as the upperclassmen, but his physical tools were apparent.

Programs are expected to take a step back after a coaching change. Philosophies and expectations have to be established. Players have to be recruited. Brian Kelly is ahead of schedule after his first spring. His focus on discipline and accountability was required to show the team their mentality would have to change under his regime. It’s impossible to project a win total for 2022 at this point, but LSU will not be a .500 team this year under Kelly’s direction. Geaux Tigers!!