LSU Has Enough Defensive Backs to Get Aggressive With Its Personnel

LSU's defense has tons of depth, which sets up player versatility for defensive coordinator Blake Baker.

LSU Tigers cornerback DJ Pickett reacts to intercepting the ball. Mandatory Credit: Stephen Lew-Imagn Images | IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect

No matter what you think of the LSU Tigers, they will be must-see television this season. The Tigers have lofty goals in Lane Kiffin's first season in Baton Rouge, but that doesn't come as a surprise to anyone.

Kiffin assembled a win-now roster, attacking the transfer portal and bringing in quality players. There isn't a grace period for Kiffin, and he isn't expecting one either. Part of Kiffin's prowess is his offensive knowledge, but the Tigers' defense could be just as exciting.

They were one of the few salvageable parts from last year under defensive coordinator Blake Baker. He has a talented secondary, which gives Baker plenty of options.

An Aggressive Playstyle in the Secondary

Boise State Broncos safety Ty Benefield. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images | USA TODAY Sports via Reuters Connect

LSU's secondary depth allows for the cornerbacks to be more aggressive in man-to-man coverage. The Tigers brought in Boise State safety Ty Benefield , who projects to be one of the top safeties in college football.

Having someone like Benefield keeps the opposing offense on its heels. He is an incredibly smart player who can blow up run plays and has fantastic ball skills.

If Baker sends PJ Woodland on a corner blitz, they're insured in the back half with Benefield. The Tigers' depth gives Baker a plethora of options in the secondary with someone as talented as Benefield.

DJ Pickett is another reliable cornerback for Baker. Pickett has the intangibles of a lockdown corner who can go toe-to-toe with most wide receivers in the conference. Pickett tied the team lead in interceptions (3) last season, but most quarterbacks may not look his way.

Dashawn Spears could also thrive in this defensive scheme. He recorded 28 total tackles, one sack, and two interceptions last season, and he could build off that production. Baker could use Spears in blitz packages or handling one-on-one coverage with slot receivers.

All of these options are available, and that's without mentioning red-shirt freshman Jhase Thomas, who received first-team reps in fall camp. Kiffin has been impressed with the LSU safety.

"Jhase really has done a good job," Kiffin said. "He can play multiple things, and so we rotate a lot of guys through early."

The next few weeks will be an important period for Baker to figure out which players best fit certain situations. Kiffin has already discussed position battles on the roster, and the secondary should be no different.

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