2024 Fall Camp: LSU Tigers

BATON ROUGE, Louisiana -During a recent 11-on-11 team practice session, LSU running back Kaleb Jackson received a pass in the backfield and swiftly advanced along the right side, breaking through to the second level.

Once he passed the Tigers' defensive line, Jackson focused on the next obstacle in his path: linebacker Whit Weeks. If you've been following LSU social media lately, you've likely witnessed the impactful collision we are discussing.

Standing at 6-foot-2 and weighing 230 pounds, Weeks is a sizable individual. However, the impact of Jackson's hit on the sophomore linebacker brought back memories of similar plays Jackson executed during his freshman year in 2023.

"I'm sure you've all seen the video. I've been involved in football all my life, and I know these things happen. Jackson made a great play, and having a player like him on your team is invaluable," Weeks commented. "I might get teased a bit for getting rocked. Coach Baker pointed out what I did wrong, emphasizing the need to get lower when facing a big opponent like that."

While the play served as a learning experience for Weeks, it does not reflect the overall performance of the front seven during this fall camp. When the team transitioned to full-contact drills, the linebackers and defensive line emerged as standout performers on the field. From Weeks to Saivion Jones, Harold Perkins, Jacobian Guillory, and Greg Penn, several players in the pass rush and linebacker positions have shone brightly, making impactful plays.

During a two-minute drill on Tuesday, the defense successfully defended a long field goal attempt. On Monday, Perkins deflected a pass at the line of scrimmage, leading to an interception by Paris Shand. The strong communication among the defensive players, particularly the front seven, has caught the attention of veteran right tackle Emery Jones, who has witnessed significant improvements firsthand.

"The effort level is noticeably different. I believe that Coach Bo Davis and Blake Baker have instilled a sense of camaraderie among the players, fostering a willingness to support each other at all costs. This level of commitment is essential for their roles, and I see a genuine connection, especially with the linebackers. The communication is clear, players are constantly talking and adjusting positions, and there is a more hands-on approach with everyone, resulting in excellent performance," Jones remarked.

"I believe that Coach Peoples' arrival has had the most significant impact on our pass rush. His expertise has been instrumental in enhancing our abilities in that area. Every player in the room acknowledges that their pass rush has improved significantly with him around. Having him on board will be a major advantage for us," Weeks added.

Although the offense has managed to produce explosive plays during the fall camp, the linebackers such as Weeks, Perkins, Greg Penn, and West Weeks have been active and energetic on the field. Under Baker's guidance, the Tigers have introduced several new blitz packages, including some designed for third-down situations, featuring Perkins and Whit Weeks in an athletic, pass-rush-oriented formation.

Weeks expressed his desire to enhance his pass-rushing skills during the offseason, aiming to increase his sack count and consistently disrupt plays in the backfield. This objective aligns with the overarching theme of the front seven's development throughout the first ten practices.

"I appreciate the freedom we have as linebackers to make plays. We are now much more aggressive, enjoy blitzing frequently, and have fun doing it," Weeks stated. "We have all evolved since last year, improved significantly, and grown closer as a unit. Any of us can be on the field at any given time. As linebackers, any of the four of us can make calls to adjust formations and ensure proper coverage.

"I believe that Coach Baker's defensive scheme is tailored for linebackers to excel, and he trusts all four of us to deliver. As for the defensive line, maintaining gap integrity is crucial for a solid run-stopping defense."

What has become evident in observing this defense during the initial weeks of camp is that the growth of the front seven will be pivotal in the defensive improvements. The overall progress of the defense will hinge on consistency and the impact the front line's performance can have on the secondary players.