Brian Kelly reveals his confidence level in LSU's offensive line entering 2023 season

LSU has a lot working in its favor on the offensive line heading into 2023. There’s no shortage of talent, but head coach Brian Kelly said recently that some of the comfort and continuity is what will raise the level of that group in 2023.

Last year, Kelly’s first at the helm in Baton Rouge, LSU started a pair of freshmen tackles and were often shuffling guys around the interior. Kelly quipped that it was “pick five guys” to go block. Now, though, there’s a clearer picture of who is playing and where.

“They were all over the place. Now there’s a lot more of a comfort level in terms of where they’re going to play,” Kelly said in an interview with WBRZ.

In particular, Kelly is bullish because LSU returns two stout tackles who got to prove themselves as true freshmen a year ago: Emery Jones and Will Campbell.

Kelly lauded the pair for stepping in right away and playing, despite the challenges. And it’s all paid off as the Tigers have experienced tackle play for the foreseeable future.

“Well I think you gotta start with the two tackles, the two freshmen tackles. Both from the state of Louisiana, Campbell and Jones. We threw them into the fire last year and knew were going to have to take our lumps a little bit. And we did. They are, I think, poised to have great seasons,” Kelly said. “Both of them have been outstanding in terms of their work ethic, learning the position.”

LSU also brings back junior Garrett Dellinger, who played a number of spots along the line for the Tigers last year. He’ll play a big role along the interior of the offensive line along with returning center Charles Turner. Kelly was also sure to give a shoutout to his offensive line coach, Brad Davis.

“Brad’s done a great job of mixing freshmen with some veterans. We’ve got some veteran players on the inside at the guard position. Certainly the center position is one where we think — a returning starter at that position as well bodes well for us moving into the second year,” Kelly said.

With the chance to trot out one of the better offensive line units in the country in front of quarterback Jayden Daniels, LSU could have one of the better offenses in the country 2023. And it will all start up front for the Tigers as the push into Year 2 of the Kelly era.