The New-Look LSU Football Defense: “Way-Too-Early” Expectations for the Tigers

As we approach the 2024 college football season, one of the most intriguing storylines surrounding LSU football is the significant transformation of its defense. Head coach Brian Kelly and defensive coordinator Matt House have recognized the need for improvement on that side of the ball after a few seasons of inconsistency. LSU, which has historically prided itself on its defensive prowess, is hoping to reestablish itself as one of the most formidable defensive units in college football. But with major changes, the question remains: What can fans realistically expect from this new-look LSU defense?

This article explores the early projections, breaking down the potential strengths and weaknesses of LSU’s defense in 2024. From key personnel changes to new schemes and strategies, we’ll take a closer look at how the Tigers are shaping up to return to their defensive dominance.

A New Defensive Philosophy Under Matt House

When Brian Kelly hired Matt House as LSU’s defensive coordinator, it was clear that change was in the air. House, who had previously worked with the Kansas City Chiefs and had experience in both college football and the NFL, brought a fresh perspective to LSU’s defensive strategy. His defensive philosophies and his ability to adapt have already been put to the test in his first few years, and 2024 could be the year that all of his concepts and schemes truly come together.

One of the most significant shifts House has made since arriving in Baton Rouge is the focus on versatility. Gone are the days when LSU relied exclusively on a traditional 4-3 or 3-4 alignment. Under House, LSU has adopted a more dynamic approach, incorporating elements of both the 3-4 and 4-3 defenses, depending on the personnel and the opponent. This change allows LSU to be more flexible in its approach, making it harder for offenses to predict how the defense will line up.

The key to LSU’s defensive success in 2024 will lie in House’s ability to adapt to both the SEC’s fast-paced spread offenses and the more traditional, power-running schemes. If House can keep his unit versatile and unpredictable, LSU will have a defensive unit capable of adjusting to a wide range of offensive attacks.

The Front Seven: Strength in the Trenches

One of the areas where LSU is expected to be strongest in 2024 is along the defensive line and linebacker corps. The Tigers boast a front seven that should strike fear into opposing quarterbacks and running backs alike. With multiple NFL-caliber players, LSU’s defensive line will be the anchor of the defense.

Defensive Line:

LSU’s defensive line is absolutely loaded with talent heading into the 2024 season. The Tigers have an impressive mix of returning veterans and highly touted young players. The interior of the line is expected to be bolstered by the return of some key players who were injured in previous seasons, giving LSU depth and stability where they need it most.

One of the most exciting prospects is junior defensive tackle Maason Smith. After missing much of the previous season due to injury, Smith is primed for a breakout year. Known for his explosive power and ability to disrupt plays in the backfield, Smith is expected to wreak havoc in the trenches and be a key piece in LSU’s defensive scheme. Alongside him, Jovante Smart, who has developed into a reliable presence in the interior, will provide additional support and experience.

The Tigers’ pass rush, which was inconsistent at times in previous years, is set to improve significantly in 2024. Players like Omar Speights, a transfer from Oregon State, and the ever-versatile Quency Wiggins will be essential in LSU’s efforts to get to the quarterback. This group of pass rushers has the potential to make LSU a much more formidable defensive unit in the SEC, which is known for its elite quarterbacks and offensive firepower.

Linebackers:

LSU’s linebacker corps has been a concern in the past, but in 2024, the Tigers will feature a much more athletic and skilled group of players. Greg Penn III, one of the top linebackers in the conference, is poised for a stellar season. His ability to diagnose plays, cover ground, and make critical tackles in space will be crucial in LSU’s efforts to slow down opposing offenses.

In addition to Penn, Harold Perkins, one of the most highly regarded young talents in the country, will be the centerpiece of the linebacking group. After a promising freshman campaign, Perkins enters 2024 with the chance to emerge as one of the premier defenders in the SEC. His speed, athleticism, and versatility allow him to be deployed in multiple roles, from rushing the passer to dropping back into coverage. Perkins is expected to be the leader of LSU’s defense, and his presence on the field could give LSU an edge in critical moments.

The Secondary: A Work in Progress

While LSU’s front seven looks ready to perform at an elite level, the secondary is where the defense could face its biggest challenges. The Tigers’ defensive backfield has been a work in progress over the past few years, and 2024 will likely be no different. Despite returning several key players, LSU will need to rely on young talent to develop quickly in order to compete with the SEC’s high-powered passing attacks.

Cornerbacks:

At cornerback, LSU will look to senior Makai Wingo and junior Zy Alexander to provide stability and coverage in the back end. Wingo, with his size and speed, has the potential to be a shutdown corner who can handle some of the SEC’s top wideouts. However, consistency has been an issue, and LSU will need him to take the next step and become a more reliable presence in coverage.

The key to LSU’s secondary success will be the development of young players like Denver Harris. Harris, who was highly rated as a recruit, has immense potential but will need to prove himself at the college level. His growth could be one of the determining factors in how effective LSU’s defense is in 2024. The Tigers will need a second cornerback who can lock down receivers and prevent explosive plays downfield.

Safeties:

At safety, LSU is looking to turn the page after some key departures. However, there is optimism about the development of players like Jordan Allen and Damarius McGhee, who have both shown promise in the preseason. Allen’s ability to read plays and make interceptions could give LSU a significant advantage when defending against deep passes. Additionally, McGhee, known for his physicality and tackling ability, will be crucial against teams that like to run the ball and attack the line of scrimmage.

While the secondary has talent, the Tigers will need their defensive backs to develop quickly and work together to minimize big plays. With so many offenses in the SEC spreading the field and utilizing multiple wide receivers, LSU’s defensive backs will have their hands full.

Special Teams and Depth: Building for the Long Haul

A successful defense is not just about having star players. Depth and consistency across the board are key for maintaining high-level performance throughout the season. In 2024, LSU’s defense is built to withstand the grind of the SEC schedule, but it will rely on contributions from multiple players across the depth chart.

Having a deep defensive rotation will allow LSU to stay fresh, especially in the second half of games when fatigue often becomes a factor. Young players who may not start initially will be relied upon in critical moments, and if they can step up, LSU will be able to rotate in fresh bodies without sacrificing performance.

Expectations for 2024: The Defensive Potential of LSU

1. A Top 25 Defense in College Football

Given the talent in the front seven and the potential for improvement in the secondary, LSU’s defense has the ability to crack the top 25 in national rankings. The Tigers’ pass rush is set to be one of the best in the SEC, and their linebackers are versatile enough to make plays in coverage and against the run.

2. Improved Turnover Margin

One of LSU’s biggest defensive issues in recent years has been its inability to generate turnovers. In 2024, expect LSU to focus on forcing more interceptions and fumbles, especially with the talent they have in the secondary and the aggressive play from the front seven. House’s defense thrives on aggression, and forcing turnovers will be a key component in LSU’s success.

3. Competitive SEC Play

Defensively, LSU will have to face some of the best offenses in the country. Teams like Alabama, Georgia, and Ole Miss are all capable of putting up big numbers, and LSU will have to rise to the occasion in SEC play. The defensive line and linebackers will be the backbone of this effort, and how well they perform against high-level SEC offenses will determine how successful LSU can be in conference games.

4. A Top-3 Defense in the SEC

Although it’s difficult to surpass perennial powerhouses like Georgia, LSU has the talent and coaching to position itself among the best in the SEC. The defensive line and linebackers are primed for a big year, and the secondary, while a work in progress, has the potential to surprise. If LSU can develop a consistent pass defense and generate turnovers, they could very well end up as one of the SEC’s top defensive units.

Conclusion

The 2024 LSU football season is poised to be an exciting one for fans of the Tigers, especially with the defensive overhaul in progress. While there are still areas of uncertainty, particularly in the secondary, LSU’s defense has the potential to return to national prominence. With a versatile defensive scheme, a strong front seven, and a deep rotation of players, LSU is in a prime position to challenge the top teams in the SEC.

Matt House and Brian Kelly have laid the groundwork for a new-look defense that could carry LSU to new heights in 2024. As the season unfolds, the Tigers will continue to develop and refine their defense, with the goal of reasserting themselves as one of the nation’s most feared defensive units. While expectations may be high, LSU’s defense is ready for the challenge ahead.