The Texas Bowl offers a crucial opportunity for teams to showcase their depth, especially in the trenches. For LSU football, their offensive line is a critical component in the success of their offense. In this breakdown, we will predict the offensive line depth chart for LSU as they prepare for their matchup in the Texas Bowl. This prediction will factor in player performance, injury history, and overall team strategy, and will cover potential starters, backups, and the team’s line rotation.
Overview of LSU’s Offensive Line Heading into the Texas Bowl
LSU’s offensive line, under the guidance of offensive line coach Brad Davis, has shown significant improvement in the 2023 season. The unit is pivotal to LSU’s offensive success, especially considering their balance of strong running backs like Josh Williams and Armoni Goodwin and quarterback Jayden Daniels, who excels in both passing and running.
As of late in the season, LSU’s line has become more cohesive, particularly with the emergence of younger players and the development of veteran upperclassmen. Heading into the Texas Bowl, LSU’s offensive line depth chart will have a few moving pieces due to injury, performance inconsistencies, and matchups with their bowl opponent. However, we can predict a starting lineup based on current form, rotations, and tendencies seen throughout the season.
Predicted Offensive Line Depth Chart for LSU
Left Tackle: Will Campbell
Status: Starter
Height: 6’6″
Weight: 330 lbs
Year: Sophomore
Will Campbell has been a standout player on LSU’s offensive line since arriving as a freshman. His consistency and athleticism have been evident throughout the 2023 season, making him a reliable starter at left tackle. With an ideal blend of size and footwork, Campbell has held his own against some of the toughest defensive ends in the SEC. His ability to protect the quarterback’s blindside and create lanes for the running game is vital for LSU, especially with the Texas Bowl being a game where maintaining offensive balance will be key.
As a sophomore, Campbell’s leadership on the line will be crucial, especially in a high-stakes environment like the Texas Bowl. His experience will allow him to effectively communicate with the other linemen and adjust to any defensive changes during the game.
Backup: Emery Jones
- Emery Jones, a highly regarded freshman, could see playing time at left tackle in case Campbell needs a breather or if there’s an injury concern. He has shown promise and could be a significant player moving forward.
Left Guard: Miles Frazier
Status: Starter
Height: 6’4″
Weight: 327 lbs
Year: Junior
Miles Frazier has been one of LSU’s most consistent offensive linemen in 2023. After transferring from FIU, he quickly solidified his spot as the starting left guard and has not looked back. Frazier’s ability to both pass protect and create running lanes has been a key factor in LSU’s offensive efficiency. He has good mobility for his size and excels at sealing off defenders to create opportunities for the backs.
As a junior, Frazier has a wealth of experience, having played against some of the SEC’s top defensive lines. His understanding of the game, coupled with his physical tools, makes him an integral part of LSU’s offensive line heading into the bowl game.
Backup: Xavier Hill
- Hill, a junior, has played both guard and tackle during his time at LSU and will be the primary backup at left guard. Hill’s versatility allows him to step in at multiple positions if necessary, though he may not have the same level of consistency as Frazier.
Center: Charles Turner
Status: Starter
Height: 6’4″
Weight: 303 lbs
Year: Junior
Charles Turner is one of the most experienced members of the LSU offensive line. He has started in multiple positions along the line but has primarily been LSU’s center for the 2023 season. Turner’s football IQ and ability to handle complex line calls make him invaluable for the Tigers. He has an impressive combination of strength and agility, which allows him to hold his ground against powerful nose tackles while also pulling and getting to the second level in run-blocking schemes.
Turner’s leadership will be especially crucial in the bowl game, where game plans may change on the fly and quick adjustments will be required. His ability to recognize defensive shifts and make quick decisions in the snap of a finger will allow LSU’s offense to run smoothly.
Backup: Garrett Dellinger
- Dellinger, primarily a guard, has filled in at center when needed and will be the backup here. Though he may not have the same level of experience at center as Turner, Dellinger is a reliable player who can be trusted in a pinch.
Right Guard: Fuad Abdur-Rahman
Status: Starter
Height: 6’5″
Weight: 330 lbs
Year: Senior
Abdur-Rahman has been an anchor for the LSU offensive line, providing stability at the right guard spot. As a senior, his leadership and experience have been key components to LSU’s offensive line success. His size and strength make him difficult to move in the running game, while his understanding of pass protection ensures Jayden Daniels stays upright. Abdur-Rahman is a versatile blocker who can dominate in both the power running game and in pass protection schemes, making him one of LSU’s most reliable linemen.
Heading into the Texas Bowl, Abdur-Rahman will be expected to help control the interior defensive line of their opponent, creating running lanes for LSU’s backs and ensuring Daniels has the protection needed to operate in the pocket.
Backup: Garrett Dellinger
- Dellinger has shown versatility throughout his LSU career, playing both guard and tackle. If necessary, he can step in at right guard and provide an experienced option.
Right Tackle: Jaylon Guillory
Status: Starter
Height: 6’6″
Weight: 328 lbs
Year: Sophomore
Jaylon Guillory’s development this season has been remarkable. As a sophomore, he has cemented himself as a key player on LSU’s offensive line at right tackle. Guillory has a solid combination of size and technique, making him difficult to beat on the outside in both pass protection and run-blocking. His ability to protect the edge for cand create space for the running backs on outside runs is critical for LSU’s offensive balance. Guillory’s footwork and ability to handle speed rushers make him an ideal candidate to start at right tackle in the Texas Bowl.
Backup: Emery Jones
- Jones, while primarily a left tackle, can be moved to the right side in case of injury or rotation. His ability to play on both sides gives LSU the flexibility to rotate players without significantly dropping off in talent.
Key Rotations and Depth Considerations
LSU’s offensive line depth is critical for their success in the Texas Bowl. The team will need to rotate players to keep the offensive line fresh, especially given the potential for a high-tempo game or long drives. The key players for rotation and depth include:
- Emery Jones – As mentioned, Jones is a talented freshman who has shown promise at both left and right tackle. His experience throughout the season will help him step in at either tackle position without much drop-off.
- Garrett Dellinger – Dellinger is a versatile lineman who has started at various spots along the line. His ability to fill in at both guard and center will make him an essential part of the depth chart.
- Xavier Hill – Hill is another versatile player, having played both guard and tackle. His flexibility in the line is a major asset when adjusting to matchups or addressing injuries.
- Will Campbell – Although Campbell is expected to start at left tackle, LSU will need to be cautious with his workload, especially if the game sees extended drives. They may opt to rotate him in and out with Emery Jones for specific situations.
- Tight Ends – LSU often uses tight ends as additional blockers on the offensive line, especially in short-yardage and goal-line situations. Players like Mason Taylor will play a role in helping block for the running backs or provide extra protection in passing situations.
