College football is back! Week 0 brings an abundance of paycheck games along with a clash of perennial Big 10 powerhouses, Northwestern and Nebraska. Both teams combined for an awe-inspiring 6 wins last year, but I’ll take what I can get. Florida State takes on Duquesne in a game that’s more relevant to LSU. It’s definitely an advantage for FSU to get what amounts to a “warm up” game to correct issues they see in live action before playing LSU. However, the game also gives LSU a chance to scout Florida State, and one player that will stand out on offense is Johnny Wilson. Wilson is a 6’7″, 235 lb. wide receiver transfer from Arizona State, and the Tallahassee media has raved about him this offseason. Wilson obviously presents matchup problems with his size, which brings me to the next position group I’ll preview for LSU, the secondary.

Cornerbacks

Webster, Peterson, Claiborne, Stingley. I could name more, but the point is there is no established, shutdown, first round lock cornerback on this roster. Nevertheless, the staff has done an impressive job of restocking a depleted secondary in a transition year. It starts with first team Big 12 selection, Jarrick Bernard-Converse. The Shreveport native started for three years at Oklahoma State before transferring to LSU. He’ll start at one corner, while McNeese transfer Colby Richardson and UL transfer Mekhi Garner battle for the other side. Garner brings great size and confidence to the position. Richardson was the most overlooked transfer of the offseason but has simply played his way into the driver’s seat to win the job. Ohio State transfer Sevyn Banks is also a factor in the competition but has struggled to stay healthy during his career. Laterrance Welch and Jaelyn Davis-Robinson are true freshmen that will provide depth. It feels like now or never for sophomore Damarius McGee. If he can’t make an impact on this year’s team, then he’s unlikely to break into the rotation in the future as Brian Kelly recruits more high school talent.

Nickelback

Greg Brooks is one of two Arkansas transfers in the secondary, and he will start at the nickel position. Brooks started as a freshman at Arkansas and never relinquished his spot. Fortunately for LSU, the New Orleans native jumped at the opportunity to transfer to LSU for his final year of eligibility. His backup, Sage Ryan, is a former 5 star recruit that returns as a sophomore. Some “fans” judge Ryan too harshly because of his lofty ranking as a high school senior, but he’ll have plenty of opportunities to prove his worth.

Safeties

Jay Ward returns for his 24th year at free safety. Only joking about his tenure, but the senior 6’2″ former cornerback is a proven leader that plays with no regard for his 190 lb. frame. Ward is a great cover safety that is willing to support the run. Former Madison Prep star, Major Burns, will start at the other safety spot. Burns has been lauded by Brian Kelly for his communication skills, and it’s encouraging that he’s beaten out the Arkansas transfer, Joe Foucha. Foucha was a three year starter for Arkansas and has proven he can play at this level. Todd Harris is another senior that has had bad luck with injuries but brings experience to the room. Sophomores Matt Langlois and Derrick Davis will also provide depth. Davis was a blue chip recruit but has been noticeably absent from any conversation regarding contributors from the coaches.

LSU has made the most of difficult situation after losing Stingley, Cordale Flott, Eli Ricks, Dwight McGlothern, and more from the secondary. This could turn out to be a formidable group, but they are not as talented as last year. The good news is it’s practically impossible to have as many injuries as they had last year. It’s very much in the realm of possibility to have a good secondary without multiple first round picks, but it’s critical to communicate effectively amongst themselves. Coverage busts would be costly next week, as LSU does not have the luxury of starting the year against a cupcake. Geaux Tigers!!