LSU coach Les Miles announced freshman quarterback Brandon Harris as the starter for No. 15 LSU’s upcoming game against No. 5 Auburn at his weekly press conference Monday.
“It stands to reason [Harris] will get first snaps in the next game,” Miles said. “I felt he did all the things we asked him to do. We have a lot of confidence in both guys, we certainly have a lot of confidence in Harris.”
Harris outplayed Jennings in LSU’s game against New Mexico State, going 11-14 for 178 yards and three touchdowns. He added two rushing touchdowns and 36 rushing yards.
Jennings was benched after throwing two interceptions in the first quarter. During the game, the sophomore quarterback was loudly booed, and sections of the crowd chanted Harris’ name before he was inserted into the game.
“I think what has to happen, too, is you have to realize that these are young guys and they’re not perfect,” Miles said. “There is an opportunity for him to improve, and I would say to those guys in Tiger Stadium, to express displeasure, hopefully it would be with the coach, not necessarily with the player.”
Miles said he felt like the players needed to know the decision had been made and hopes the team can continue improving the offense.
“I can tell you that I felt like Brandon Harris needed to know it, and I felt like Anthony Jennings needed to know it,” Miles said. “That’s the reason it was made. I can also tell you that we, as we always do, will go into the game week with the idea that we have exactly what we need. We’ll take stock of what we’re doing and make sure that the offense is being run, doing the right things.”
Miles said Harris’ ability to extend the play and make plays with his feet even when things go wrong is a key factor to his game.
For the season, Jennings has completed 50.6 percent of his passes for five touchdowns with three interceptions, while Harris has completed 73.3 percent of his passes for six touchdowns and only one interception.
Harris’ interception came on the final Hail Mary play against Mississippi State when he almost led the Tigers to an improbable, last second comeback.
Miles said Harris is more confident than he has ever been running the offense under center.
After leading the Tigers to victory against New Mexico St., Miles said Harris performed well when called into action against the Aggies.
“He performed well, handled all the communication and a multitude of things we ask a quarterback to do. He made plays and it was very positive,” Miles said after the game.
You can reach Trey Labat on Twitter @treylabat_TDR.
