Brian Thomas will get his share of reps in the LSU offense as it hosts New Mexico on Saturday. The Tigers are set to be without Kayshon Boutte, who has been excused from the team as he and his girlfriend are expecting the birth of his child.

Thomas had a strong showing as a true freshman in 2021, making 28 catches for 359 yards and 2 touchdowns. Thus far during 3 games in 2022, he’s made 9 catches for 121 yards and a touchdown.

During his weekly press conference on Thursday, Brian Kelly stated that the Tigers’ WR rotation would be made up of Thomas, Jack Bech, Malik Nabers, Kyren Lacy, and Chris Hilton. But he called special attention to Thomas, the former 4-star recruit  who was considered among the country’s top 15 wideouts in the class of 2021.

“I think the thing that’s stood out is his yards after the catch. He’s difficult to bring down. He’s another guy that’s started to understand what it takes to get on the field,” the 1st-year Tigers head coach said, according to LSU digital reporter Harrison Valentine.

Kickoff between the Tigers and Lobos is set for 7:30 p.m. ET on SEC Network+.