In just under two weeks, LSU will return to the field and strap on the pads once again. Spring practice begins on March 7 for the Tigers, and they have plenty of work to do to rebound from an 8-5 season.

Who are the players that Les Miles and his staff need to commit to and see development from?

  • Quarterbacks Brandon Harris and Anthony Jennings — The Tigers aren’t alone in having their 2015 prospects hinge on how their quarterback position plays out. Unlike some SEC rivals that have uncertainty under center, LSU is returning both of its passers from 2014. Jennings held down the starting role for 12 of 13 games last season and was consistently inaccurate, completing fewer than 50 percent of his passes, while showing an inability to make quick decisions with the ball. Harris, despite flashing his potential on multiple occasions, was unable to overtake Jennings for the starting job. Offensive coordinator Cam Cameron needs both to raise their level of play while tailoring the offense to their skill sets, if LSU wants to contend in 2015.
  • Offensive lineman Ethan Pocic — The question with the talented Pocic is where he’ll play in 2015. He was recruited as a four-star tackle, but moved to the interior once he arrived on campus. In 2014, Pocic spent time at both guard and center, filling in for senior center Elliott Porter amidst suspension and injury. With Porter, Evan Washington and La’el Collins all graduated, LSU could be looking at having new starters at all five linemen positions. For continuity’s sake, Miles and the staff could keep Pocic at center and let him pick up where he left off. He was just as impressive at guard, though, and with Vadal Alexander likely moving from left guard to right tackle there could be a spot for him there, especially if the other centers on the roster show they’re ready.
  • Linebacker Clifton Garrett — A former five-star recruit from the 2014 class, Garrett didn’t crack the LSU linebacker rotation last year and ended up taking a redshirt. With Kwon Alexander leaving for the NFL and new defensive coordinator Kevin Steele bringing with him some 3-4 defense, there should be an opportunity for Garrett to get on the field in 2015. He can use the spring practice sessions to make a case for himself as Kendell Beckwith’s primary backup or the second inside linebacker on the field in 3-4 alignments. With LSU’s lack of depth at linebacker after not signing any in its 2015 recruiting class, the Tigers will need Garrett ready to get on the field on opening day this fall.
  • Cornerback Kevin Toliver II — There’s a strong sense that, as an early enrollee, Toliver could get on the field early and often as a true freshman. He’ll get plenty of opportunity in spring practices. Reports from around the team indicate that defensive backs coach Corey Raymond will give Toliver ample opportunity to cover LSU’s talented wide receiver options in spring practice. If he can hold his own against Travin Dural, Malachi Dupre, John Diarse and Trey Quinn, all of whom have varying skill sets, it could mean big things for both Toliver and the rest of the defensive backfield after losing both starting cornerbacks from opening day a year ago.