LSU five-star freshman could make debut Saturday vs. Kentucky

Former five-star recruit Sage Ryan could soon make his debut on the LSU Tigers defense. Ryan, who was one of the top safeties in his class, could be approaching his first action in an LSU uniform due to multiple injuries in the Tigers’ secondary.

Defensive back Major Burns will be out on Saturday when LSU takes on Kentucky. With Burns sidelined, LSU head coach Ed Orgeron said that Ryan could be nearing his debut with the program.

“Yeah, and listen, he has been practicing outstanding,” Orgeron said when asked if Burns’ injury could lead to Ryan making his debut. “He’s been all over the field. I do believe he’s going to get some reps. He’s ready to play. I don’t know if he knows the defense. He doesn’t have the proper reps because he was hurt so long. But I do believe he’s going to get a chance to play, yeah.”

Ryan played four seasons at Lafayette Christian Academy in Louisiana. There, he led his team to a 48-3 career record and won a state title in each of his four seasons. Ryan’s cousin is LSU’s all-time leading rusher and current running backs coach Kevin Faulk.

Burns spent his freshman season last year at Georgia. He had 25 tackles, two passes defended and one interception in five games this season for LSU.

LSU’s defense has been hit with numerous injuries

On Thursday, LSU ruled defensive lineman Joseph Evans out for Saturday’s game against Kentucky. A few weeks ago, sixth-year senior defensive end Andre Anthony suffered a season ending injury.

Anthony had eight tackles, four tackles for loss, 3.5 sacks, and a fumble recovery for a touchdown before going down with his injury. Evans plays a key role on LSU’s defensive front with eight tackles and 2.5 tackles for loss.

Earlier in the week, it was announced that star cornerback Derek Stingley would be out indefinitely after undergoing foot surgery. Stingley dealt with an injury during fall camp and played in LSU’s first three games this season before missing the final two. On the year, Stingley has eight tackles and one forced fumble. He is widely regarded as one of the top defensive backs in all of college football and could be one of the first cornerbacks taken in the NFL Draft.

With injures piling up on LSU’s defense, Ryan could be in line for more playing time. If that comes to be true, he will need to be well prepared as LSU’s upcoming schedule includes Kentucky, Florida, Ole Miss, Alabama, and Arkansas.