Cornerback and running back are the two most intriguing position battles at LSU’s preseason camp, and Coach Brian Kelly addressed both subjects following the team’s practice on Tuesday.
We are 25 days away from the season opener, and it’s a bit of mystery who will start at the two outside corner positions, though two guys have emerged.
Kelly likes what he’s seen from Duce Chestnut, a transfer form Syracuse. He was a two-year starter for the Orange and a two-time All ACC selection. Chestnut signed with LSU but didn’t participate in spring football because of an injury. Kelly says he’s looked good since camp opened.
“You know the things that stood out to us in our evaluation, was that he was a smart player, savvy, sure tackler and he was always around the ball and that’s starting to show itself early on in camp,” said Kelly.
The other potential starter at outside corner is Zy Alexander, a three-year starter at Southeastern Louisiana, who was a first team All-Southland Conference performer last season.
But Kelly sees other guys emerging as well. Sophomore Laterrance Welch from Acadiana High School and true freshman Ashton Stamps from Rummel High School. Kelly says they challenged Stamps to add bulk to his body and it’s resulting in him getting a lot of reps.
Figuring out the reps at the running back position is like trying to solve an algebra problem. There are eight scholarship backs, but just one football. Kelly gave us a clue on who will give the first opportunities.
“You know it always ends up coming back to the guys with the most experience end up rising to the top and taking over,” said Kelly.
Based on that answer, freshmen Trey Holly and Kaleb Jackson will have to wait their turn. Noah Cain, John Emery, and Josh Williams are the oldest guys out of this group, as they’ve been playing college football since the 2019 season.
You also figure Logan Diggs is set to get a fair share of carries after rushing for over 1,000 yards in two seasons at Notre Dame. Also don’t forget about Armoni Goodwin. He can be an explosive out of the backfield after averaging six yards a carry last season.