LSU football coach Ed Orgeron said Wednesday morning that All-American cornerback Derek Stingley Jr. was back at practice Tuesday and that he believes the star defender will play Saturday at Vanderbilt.
“I do believe that he should play,” Orgeron said. “It’s not conclusive yet that he’s going to play, but I do believe he’s going to play.”
Stingley was hospitalized Friday night after becoming “acutely ill” and missed the Tigers season opener, a loss to Mississippi State.
Without the Baton Rouge native, LSU gave up an SEC-record 623 passing yards. If Stingley is able to play Saturday Orgeron said it will be a huge lift for the Tigers’ defense.
“Derek’s one of our best players, one of the best corners in the country, especially when your playing a lot of man coverage like we are,” Orgeron said. “Obviously, he’s a force and makes a difference.”
