After major losses to the offense, LSU’s passing attack suffered a large dip in productivity in 2014. Early this spring, it looks to form a competent passing game to complement sophomore running back Leonard Fournette and his fellow rushers. 
Last season, the Tigers gained just 2,118 passing yards compared with 2,919 on the ground.
They brought in new wide receivers and Coach Tony Ball to make LSU capable of putting big numbers through the air again. The receivers are beginning to embrace their new coach and said they are capable of being a bigger force this season.
“Some coaches aren’t as confident going in [to their first spring], but he’s tackled it head first, and he’s helped us improve mentally and physically,” said sophomore wide receiver Malachi Dupre.
Dupre said the receivers are taking it upon themselves to improve this spring so LSU can have a more efficient offense.
“With guys like Leonard Fournette and [sophomore running back] Darel Williams in the backfield, [an improved passing game] can give other teams more to account for,” Dupre said. “Last year we didn’t do a good job of passing the ball, and teams game-planned more towards stopping the run. This year and moving forward, we’ll be more balanced.”
Sophomore quarterback Brandon Harris has noticed the receivers’ progress. After struggling to stay on the field last year, Harris said he feels more comfortable with his receivers and is thriving in the offense this spring.
“It was a really good day for us throwing the football,” Harris said after practice Thursday. “I’ve been really pleased with how we’ve been moving the ball through the air so far. We’re excited about finally being able to compliment our running backs by being able to throw the ball.”
Harris said he sees serious potential in offensive coordinator Cam Cameron’s offense this season with all the receiving weapons at his disposal.
“As a quarterback, it’s like a kid in the candy store with our guys at wide receiver,” Harris said. “If we can just distribute the ball and not have turnovers, the sky’s the limit.”
Another shakeup on LSU’s coaching staff was the addition of Ed Orgeron as the new defensive line coach. Orgeron is famous for his upbeat coaching style, and his players are also responding to him in his first spring with the team.
“He’s that guy that that’s gonna lift you up when you walk in to the locker room,” said sophomore defensive lineman Devon Godchaux. “He’s that high-spirit guy who always makes sure we’re ready to work.”
But perhaps the biggest change to LSU’s coaching staff this spring is the addition of Kevin Steele, who replaced long-time defensive coordinator John Chavis.
“He brings a new energy we didn’t have with Coach Chavis,” said junior cornerback Tre’Davious White. “I love the energy he brings to the team, and he gets us pumped up for practice.”
LSU was No. 1 in total defense in the Southeastern Conference last season. LSU’s secondary played a big part in that, and White said the unit is even deeper this year. 
“Everybody could play.” White said. “If any guy goes down, the next guy up is just as talented.” 
You can reach Mario Jerez on Twitter @MJerez111_TDR.