Omar Speights evaluates how LSU linebackers have competed in fall camp

LSU will entertain College Football Playoff hopes during the 2023 season and one of the units that must step up to make that happen are the LSU linebackers.

They have arguably the nation’s best in Harold Perkins, who was a revelation as a freshman last season. But several others are also capable, and the Tigers brought in some help from the outside in the likes of Oregon State transfer Omar Speights.

“I think it’s coming along good,” Speights said. “I think everybody’s progressing like Greg (Penn III). Greg’s looking like a different player from last year. Perk’s still progressing. I’m still progressing. We’re all getting better, even the younger guys. And West (Weeks), West still progressing too.”

Perkins is the destroyer in the group, but guys like Speights will also be needed. The more playmakers the better.

LSU’s defense must improve this fall. The unit was good last year, but not great. The Tigers finished 30th in scoring defense and 40th in overall defense.

Given the anticipated improvement from quarterback Jayden Daniels being back for another year in Brian Kelly‘s systems, a small step up for the defense could be just what the doctor ordered for LSU. There is definite playoff potential if the LSU linebackers continue to step up.

“Everyone getting real good work, so we just push each other every day, no matter if you’re a freshman or you’re a senior,” Speights said.

LSU linebackers tested by running backs

The LSU linebackers have had a stiff test so far in fall camp, with the team’s running backs also a strength going into the fall. Veteran John Emery has been tough to bring down.

But that competition should only make the entire team better. That’s the approach players are taking.

“It’s going to take all of us to get through the season,” running back Noah Cain said. “You’ve seen, any given play, anybody can go down. But at the same time, though, that’s the next-man-up mentality, you know. Everybody in that room understands that you may be the guy one day, may not be the guy the next day.

“But you got to be locked in, you got to just stay locked in on your journey and your path, and when your name is called, be prepared. Be prepared to be the guy, prepare like you’re the guy, prepare like you’re the starter day-in and day-out. Because if you don’t, then you’re gonna regret it. If you don’t prepare like you’re the starter, and when the coaches need you and you’re not ready, that’s on you. That’s nobody else. That’s on you.”

On3’s Alex Weber also contributed to this report.