LSU fans will have to wait until the home opener to see defensive tackle Maason Smith chase after opposing running backs and quarterbacks. Sources say the NCAA has suspended Smith for the season opener against Florida State for accepting an improper benefit.
How could he be suspended for an improper benefit while college athletes are able to receive money for their name, image and likeness?
Apparently, this NCAA infraction happened before N-I-L went into effect. And remember, Smith only played one series last year before a knee injury ended his season, so he was never able to serve the suspension in 2022.
Smith is expected to be a major piece to LSU’s defense. He’s on the preseason All-SEC first team and multiple watch lists. The former Terrebonne High School star had four sacks in nine games in 2021.
LSU does have depth at the defensive tackle. Mekhi Wingo is a preseason AP All-American after a breakout season last year where he had 47 tackles, six tackles for a loss and three sacks.
Smith has not been available for much of preseason camp because of injuries so that’s allowed Jacobian Guillory to get more snaps with the first team. This is Guillory’s third season at LSU after a standout career at Alexandria Senior High. Guillory had 14 tackles in 14 games last year.
West Virginia transfer Jordan Jefferson will also rotate in. Jefferson started 12 games last season and led the Mountaineers with 9.5 tackles for a loss.
But you would rather have Smith for this top ten matchup. The Seminoles have an experienced offensive line as their returning group has a combined 206 starts in their respective careers.
Last season FSU ranked 10th nationally in total yards per game, with 484 yards per contest. Also, the Seminoles allowed only 20 sacks last season as FSU Quarterback Jordan Travis is one of college football’s best playmakers.
