LSU Tigers vs. Baylor Bears: Texas Bowl Preview – Freshmen to Watch
As the LSU Tigers prepare to wrap up their 2024 season in the Texas Bowl against the Baylor Bears on New Year’s Eve, much of the focus has been on the young talent that will step up to fill key roles. With Brian Kelly and his staff relying on freshmen and depth pieces due to multiple players entering the NCAA Transfer Portal and several NFL Draft-eligible players opting out, Tuesday’s game against Baylor will offer an opportunity for the Tigers’ newcomers to shine in what could be a pivotal game for the program’s future.
With a kickoff time set for 2:30 p.m. CT at NRG Stadium in Houston, this game will be broadcast live on ESPN. The outcome of this matchup is significant for both teams, with each seeking their ninth win of the season. However, for LSU, the focus is as much on the future as it is on the present. As Kelly and the Tigers face a Baylor team led by former LSU defensive coordinator Dave Aranda, LSU’s young players, particularly the true freshmen, will play a major role in shaping the team’s performance.
Let’s take a closer look at three true freshmen who will have a chance to make an impact on Tuesday.
No. 1: Tight End Trey’Dez Green
The LSU Tigers’ tight end room has seen its fair share of turnover in recent years, and heading into the Texas Bowl, the 6-foot-7, 245-pound Trey’Dez Green is the lone returning tight end on LSU’s roster. Green, who joined the Tigers as a true freshman, has proven to be a versatile asset to the offense in his first season. While he was utilized in various roles as both a tight end and wideout, it appears that his future lies primarily in the tight end spot.
Green has already shown his potential, recording seven receptions for 48 yards and two touchdowns in his debut season. However, his greatest contributions have come in his ability to block, an area where Kelly and the coaching staff have been particularly impressed. Green’s willingness to take on the tough, physical tasks required at tight end is something Kelly highlighted during bowl preparation. “The end line blocking is probably the area that we are most impressed with,” Kelly said of Green’s development. “His want to and willingness to go in there and do some of the tough jobs. We are pretty excited about what’s he’s doing, how he’s doing and his demeanor because that’s an easy job to turn down and he’s been great.”
In the Texas Bowl, Green will be the only tight end available for LSU, meaning he’ll be called upon to play a significant role in both the passing and blocking game. His ability to contribute in all phases of the game will be essential if LSU is to successfully move the ball downfield against a tough Baylor defense.
No. 2: Linebacker Davhon Keys
Davhon Keys, a true freshman linebacker for the LSU Tigers, was thrown into an expanded role in 2024 due to injuries and redshirt decisions. The absence of veteran linebacker West Weeks, who battled injury, gave Keys the opportunity to step up and showcase his skills. While Keys might not have been a starter at the beginning of the season, he quickly made his presence felt, and his performance has been one of the highlights of LSU’s linebacker corps.
During the 2024 regular season, Keys totaled 26 tackles, 1.5 sacks, and two pass deflections. He proved that he has the ability to make plays in all areas of the game, whether it be in coverage, rushing the passer, or defending the run. Moving forward, Keys will be a key player for LSU, especially in the 2025 season, when he is expected to form a dynamic duo with fellow linebacker Whit Weeks.
In the Texas Bowl, Keys will have another opportunity to show his ability to contribute on the second level of LSU’s defense. Given that the Bears have a strong offense, including a talented quarterback in Sawyer Robertson, Keys’ ability to stop the run and cover pass-catching running backs or tight ends will be crucial. His development in this bowl game will be vital for LSU as they look to prepare for the future.
No. 3: Running Back Caden Durham
Caden Durham, another highly touted true freshman for LSU, has made an immediate impact in the Tigers’ backfield. The talented running back has been a key contributor throughout the 2024 season, logging 127 carries for 693 yards and six touchdowns. Additionally, Durham has shown his versatility as a receiving threat, recording 257 receiving yards and two touchdowns through the air.
What has made Durham such a standout player is his explosive playmaking ability. His vision, speed, and elusiveness have allowed him to rack up big yardage in multiple games this season. Heading into the Texas Bowl, Durham is expected to play a significant role, especially given that senior running back Josh Williams will be suiting up for his final game as a Tiger. While Williams has been a key leader for LSU during his time in Baton Rouge, Durham will likely split reps with him in what could be a pivotal game for the Tigers.
For Durham, the Texas Bowl will be a chance to prove that he can carry the load for LSU’s offense. Against a Baylor defense that has been solid throughout the year, Durham will need to continue his strong play in both the running and passing game to keep LSU’s offense balanced and productive. As one of the most dynamic young players in the SEC, Durham has the chance to further cement his reputation as a future star in Baton Rouge.
Josh Williams: A Final Ride
While LSU’s focus is on their freshmen and building for the future, the Tigers will also have a veteran presence in the backfield in Josh Williams. Williams, who is set to play in his final game for LSU, has been a staple of the program for six seasons. Throughout his career, Williams has seen the highs of a National Championship and the challenges brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic. He has battled through adversity to earn a significant role in LSU’s offense.
For Williams, playing in the Texas Bowl is a chance to go out on a high note. “I chose to play in the bowl game because it’s the last time I’ll ever be able to play as an LSU Tiger and I want to go out with a bang,” Williams said. “LSU means so much to me, it’s almost indescribable. I’ve been here for six years. I’ve learned a lot. I’ve played a lot of football and met some people and friends that I’ll cherish for the rest of my life.”
While LSU’s future is bright with players like Durham, Keys, and Green, Williams’ leadership and experience will be invaluable on the field during the Texas Bowl. His final game as a Tiger will certainly be one to remember, and his impact will be felt both on the field and in the locker room.
Conclusion: A Look Toward the Future
As LSU prepares for the Texas Bowl against Baylor, Brian Kelly’s focus is not just on securing a win but also on the development of his young players. The freshmen stepping up in key roles – from Trey’Dez Green at tight end to Davhon Keys and Caden Durham in the trenches – represent the future of LSU football. While the game against Baylor will be a challenging test, it also presents an opportunity for these players to gain valuable experience and make a significant impact.
For the Tigers, this game is about more than just finishing the season strong – it’s about building momentum for the future, and LSU’s young talent will play a pivotal role in shaping that future. With a strong mix of freshmen and veterans, LSU will look to close out the season with a win and take the first step toward an exciting 2025 campaign.
