As LSU moves into its second week of preseason practice, the focus for the defense is improving on third down and getting more turnovers. Last season, opponents converted on third down 39% of the time. That ranked in the middle of the pack in the SEC.
Georgia and Alabama who had two of the best defenses in the league last season held opponents to 30% or less on third down.
LSU also forced 20 turnovers last season. A number defensive coordinator Matt House would like to see go up in his second year as the DC at LSU.
House likes the depth he has on the defensive line, thanks to several transfers. He’s excited about defensive tackle Jordan Jefferson, a transfer from West Virginia, defensive end Paris Shand, a transfer from Arizona and Jalen Lee a transfer from Florida. House says Lee really improved over the summer.
Everyone is expecting a big season from defensive tackle Maason Smith. House says Smith is still shaking off the rust after missing most of the 2022 season. The Tigers defensive coordinator says Smith is also working to improve his pad level.
At linebacker, LSU is moving Harold Perkins from outside to inside as they look at ways to make him more dynamic.
Five-star recruit Da’Shawn Womack is also being moved around from defensive end to the Jack position, which is the outside linebacker position at LSU. He’ll be asked to rush the passer with his explosive six-foot-five, 260-pound frame.
Oregon State linebacker Omar Speights brings more maturity to the defense after four seasons at OSU.
Look for Greg Penn to have a bigger season this year after finishing second on the team in tackles with 78. House says he’s more comfortable, leaner and moving around better.
The secondary is the big question mark, but they have experience at safety. Major Burns’ speed and length is a big asset for LSU on defense, but House wants to see his game go to the next level by understanding what opposing offenses are trying to do.
Another transfer, Andre Sam, brings plenty of experience to LSU’s defense. He played four seasons at McNeese and spent last year at Marshall. The guy has 232 tackles in college football and House says Sam has bought in. They love his energy and veteran presence.
At cornerback, House says Syracuse transfer Duce Chestnut put together a string of good practices last week. According to House, Chestnut is excellent in baiting players and that you can tell he’s played a lot of football. Chestnut is a two-time All-ACC player and had four interceptions for the Orange.
House says Southeastern Louisiana transfer Zy Alexander continues to grow. House calls him a smart player and can tell he learned a lot by playing quarterback at Loreauville High School in Iberia Parish.
House joins head coach Brian Kelly in giving freshman Ashton Stamps rave reviews. House says Stamps has grown up fast and calls him a football nut. Loves his competitive spirit as Stamps came to LSU camps on three different occasions to earn a scholarship. He says the former Rummel Raider embraces competition.