With the exception of the quarterback position, which is being discussed unceasingly, how have the new starters performed in comparison to the players whom they replaced? Has there been a drop-off at any other position?
Goes without saying, we really miss Donnie Jones. Jones was like a 12th defender out there... Personally, I expected more from Oliver and I hope to see him improve even more. I really miss Hill and I really miss Jack Hunt directing that defense.
I believe we still have some work to do at the DT position. Kyle Williams is solid, but teams are still having no problem going up the gut. Also, it goes without saying that the O-line needs some serious work. Even the veteran starters aren't playing up to par! I think our WR corps has surprised us. Bowe and Davis are playing like they've been starters before. Too many dropped balls, though. I won't even touch the kicking game. What gives? How can you screw up something that you practice over and over and over and over again? I don't want to overlook Miss. St., but with them being an SEC foe, anything can happen. I think it will still give the coaching staff another chance to evaluate their talent going into Georgia and Florida. If we win one of those two, I think we'll be alright for the rest of the season.
How about Stephen Peterman and Rodney Reed. Our offensive line definitely misses those two. Obviously we are missing the experience of Clayton and Devery as well.
I think all the replacements are playing about as well as can be expected and that by the end of the year LSU will again be one of the top defensive teams in the country, if they can ever get their quarterback situation ironed out and not keep the defense on the field so much. Until LSU settles on just one quarterback, the offense will continue to struggle against the tough teams and the defense will have to more than carry the load. The offensive line will appear to miraculously improve and play better once LSU can pass the ball with proficiency.
Auburn is probably the the best running team we will face this season and I thought our defense played well for the most part, especially in the second half. The main problem was our offense never showed up. Anytime you hold a team to only10 points, you should win the game. There is just no excuses for losing even if you are stuck with a nonsensical two-quarterback system.
What do you guys think?: Should Landry go back to SS and JD to FS? Has anyone even noticed Claude Wroten? I say play Dorsey more... Our OLine was not impressive, especially pass protection, should any personnel be moved? RB has become an unexpected question in the sense of who should get the most carries.
