Brian Kelly discusses Jay Ward's position switch, how to get Jack Bech involved
Brian Kelly and the LSU coaching staff made a key position switch of defensive back Jay Ward, and it’s paid off already for the Tigers.
Ward was named the SEC’s Defensive Player of the Week after a big game against Mississippi State. Ward had a career night and the senior finished with 11 tackles, 1.5 tackles for loss and an interception.
Kelly discussed the move, and what Ward has contributed to the Tigers.
“Quite honestly, he probably didn’t play up to his level against Florida State,” Kelly said on the SEC coaches media teleconference. “It’s probably because we didn’t have him in the right place. We moved him down to the nickel and he’s thrived. … He likes to be around the action. … He’s an aggressive player and a really good tackler and it really suits his skills. Since we made that move, he’s really played well for us.”
On the side of the field, LSU is trying to get Jack Bech on track after he’s made just 2 catches for 22 yards and a touchdown this season.
“I think, quite frankly, as coaches and it starts with me, we’ve gotta get him more involved. You’re going to see that that’s going to take place this weekend,” Kelly said. … “We’ve got really good players at that position and we have to do a better job of getting really good players on the field. There has to be intentional rotation and competition in practice. … Jack’s doing everything he’s been asked of. There shouldn’t be any narrative out there that he hasn’t or he’s injured. We have to do a better job as a coaching staff.”
Kelly after the last 2 weeks now has a better sense for how Tiger Stadium helps his team.
“There is absolutely no doubt that playing at home in Tiger Stadium is a decided advantage,” he said. “The crowd is into it. It’s difficult to get your plays in. You feel rushed from an offensive perspective. It’s definitely an advantage and you can feel it in the stadium.”