Earlier this week, we took an early look at what LSU could throw out there on offense this fall.
Now, It’s time for the defense.
This unit is more of a challenge to pin down. LSU’s offense is bringing back most of its production. The defense, however, is losing several key pieces.
BJ Ojulari and Ali Gaye are gone after holding down the edge spots since 2020. The secondary is going through another makeover and veteran linebackers Micah Baskerville and Mike Jones Jr. are gone too.
DeMario Tolan, a talented young linebacker, hit the portal along with a couple of young corners.
The cupboard is far from bare. LSU returns strong players on the interior and did heavy work in the transfer portal, especially on the backend. With Harold Perkins, Mekhi Wingo and a healthy Maason Smith, the defense remains in a good spot.
Here’s how we think the defense could stack up next season.
JACK: Sai’vion Jones
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The assistant shuffle is still ongoing and the NFL could come calling, but right now, Matt House remains LSU’s DC. This projection will be based on his scheme.
The JACK, House’s traditional edge rusher spot, was Ojulari’s in 2022. With Ojulari gone, there’s no obvious replacement. Sai’vion Jones is the returnee with the most experience. He was top 10 at his position in the 2021 recruiting class and Kelly has offered him praise before.
He started three games in 2022 and according to PFF, notched 14 pressures and five sacks.
Jones is far from a sure thing and he’ll be pushed by transfers and youngsters, but he’s going to make an impact next fall and has the chance to be LSU’s top guy off the edge.
Transfer portal pass rushers
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LSU brought in a couple of edge rushers from the portal — Bradyn Swinson and Ovie Oghoufo. Both are solid players who should contribute in some way with a chance to do more.
Swinson didn’t play much at
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