Brian Kelly’s LSU Tigers are gearing up to play the USC Trojans in a Week 1 battle of ranked teams.
In anticipation of the matchup, Kelly spoke with reporters and offered an interesting tidbit about his defense. The coach mentioned that a few freshmen would play for the Tigers in the season opener.
Kelly specifically pointed to defensive lineman Ahmad Breaux as a freshman who is “physically and mentally” ready to play for the team in Week 1.
Expect freshman defensive tackle Ahmad Breaux to get early playing time.
Asked about LSU’s freshmen, Brian Kelly said “he’d the most ready, physically and mentally, to play for us.”
— Wilson Alexander (@whalexander_) August 29, 2024
The Tigers have an experienced defensive line that features three seniors as starters. Breaux could spell Sai’vion Jones on the edge against the Trojans. Per the 247Sports Composite ranking, Breaux was a 3-star prospect out of Ruston, Louisiana.
However, Breaux won’t be the only freshman to get snaps in Week 1.
Kelly also mentioned corner PJ Woodland and safety Dashawn Spears as freshmen who could have a role against USC.
— Wilson Alexander (@whalexander_) August 29, 2024
Kelly also mentioned cornerback PJ Woodland and safety Dashawn Spears as others who could get a shot against the Trojans. Ashton Stamps, Sage Ryan, and Major Burns will see the majority of CB snaps, while Jordan Allen and Jardin Gilbert will see the safety snaps. Woodland and Spears are highly-touted prospects who should help the depth of the secondary against a high-powered Trojan offense.
The Tigers and Trojans will kick off from Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas on Sunday at 7:30 p.m. ET. LSU is a 4.5-point favorite at bet365.
Bryce Lazenby covers college football for Saturday Down South. A Nashville native, his previous stops include FanSided, Dimers, and The Leaf-Chronicle.
