Editor’s note: This column compiled by The Daily Reveille’s sports staff is the first in a series of player predictions for the 2013 LSU football season.
It’s never too early to talk some football. In order to preview the upcoming season, The Daily Reveille’s sports staff picked consensus starting lineups. We chose to begin this week with the unit that has seen the most turnover from last season: the defense.
Defensive End: Jermauria Rasco, Tashawn Bower
Rasco had a great spring, and Bower is most ready out of the defensive line recruits that LSU has coming this season. Don’t be surprised if Danielle Hunter starts at first, but we expect Bower to see a majority of the snaps. Jordan Allen will also be in the mix.
Defensive Tackle: Anthony Johnson, Ego Ferguson
Johnson and Ferguson are the only veteran interior defensive linemen returning from last season and are expected to be part of the strength of this year’s defense. Freshman Christian LaCouture will also see some time on the inside after having a productive spring.
Outside Linebackers: Kwon Alexander, Tahj Jones
Alexander was good last season as a freshman (prior to breaking his ankle against Florida) and may be the most talented linebacker on the team. Jones was ineligible for most of last season before returning and getting the start against Clemson in the Chick-fil-A Bowl. However, one of these spots will be Lamin Barrow’s if D.J. Welter gets the nod at middle linebacker.
Middle Linebacker: Lamin Barrow
Barrow is the most experienced linebacker on the team. Even though he played outside all of last season, he could move into the middle this season because the team is loaded at outside linebacker and short-handed in the middle. Welter is competing with Barrow for the job.
Cornerbacks: Jalen Mills, Jalen Collins
With Tharold Simon gone, Mills and Collins will be the Tigers’ top cornerbacks to start the season. Both started games and played extensively as freshmen last season. Dwayne Thomas is expected to begin the season as the Tigers’ nickel corner.
Free Safety: Ronald Martin
Eric Reid’s departure leaves a big hole in the LSU secondary, and Martin will get the first chance at filling it. Micah Eugene and Corey Thompson will also be in the mix at safety.
Strong Safety: Craig Loston
Loston was the starting strong safety all of last season, and if he stays healthy, it will be his job all of this season.