The hits keep coming for LSU football, this time in the form of wide receiver Kayshon Boutte out for the season.
LSU head coach Ed Orgeron confirmed that Boutte wouldn't play again this season after suffering multiple leg injuries in a blowout loss to Kentucky.
It's the latest loss of a star player for LSU, who is already playing without star cornerback Derek Stingley Jr., defensive end Andre Anthony, quarterback Myles Brennan and others due to injury. Running back John Emery Jr. has also been held off the field due to academic issues. Boutte was hurt initially in the first half, but returned to the game. He was hurt again on a sideline grab in the second half and was carted back to the locker room.
Boutte has been a star in his sophomore season with a clear connection formed alongside quarterback Max Johnson. Boutte remains tied for the FBS lead with nine touchdown catches. He was held out of the end zone by Kentucky, the first time that's happened in a game this season, but his 8 catches for 73 yards still paced the team. Boutte's impressive sophomore campaign will end with an impressive total of 38 catches for 509 yards and those nine scores.
His absence will mean more snaps for the Tigers' array of talented pass-catchers, including freshman tight end Jack Bech, who has stepped into a much bigger role in recent weeks. Orgeron also mentioned Malik Nabers, Jontre Kirklin and others who will have to step into bigger roles.
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“I think all those guys just have to step up," Orgeron said. "Not just one guy, everybody has to step up.”
One thing LSU is never at a lack of is young, talented pass-catchers. But the loss of another star marks the latest challenge in a difficult season that's faltered to a 3-3 start with the meat of the SEC slate left to play. The Tigers don't get a break this week, with No. 20 Florida heading to Death Valley looking to avenge an upset loss from a season ago.
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