While the national spotlight continues to shine on LSU’s running backs for their bruising play, another part of the Tiger backfield is leaving its stamp on opposing defenders this fall.
Offensive linemen credit the runners for hitting the hole and running backs always thank the offensive line for the open lanes, but fullbacks tend to be an afterthought.
Not at LSU, where the fullbacks, led by senior James Stampley and sophomore J.C. Copeland, have helped LSU rack up 194 rushing yards per game and 20 touchdowns on the ground against top-flight competition through seven weeks.
Senior center P.J. Lonergan said the fullbacks work as an extension of the offensive line in the Tiger offense.
“We treat the fullback spot like a sixth lineman — that’s how much respect we have for them,” Lonergan said. “They’re reacting based on our reads and schemes. Those guys are great out.”
Senior lineman Will Blackwell said Stampley’s fearless blocks are reassuring sights for the guys in the trenches.
“We’ve been watching him hit guys in practice every day. To see him do it in a game is always impressive,” Blackwell said. “We love the physicality of the game, and to have a fullback that enjoys it maybe more than the offensive line does, it’s an honor to have James back here.”
Copeland has been Stampley’s running mate this fall, playing more than 100 snaps and serving as the primary fullback in goal-line sets.
The sophomore’s takedown of Florida linebacker Jon Bostic sprung sophomore running back Spencer Ware’s second touchdown in LSU’s 41-11 beatdown of the Gators and was highlighted on CBS’ telecast of the game.
The fullbacks’ success is the latest example of the unit’s prominence at LSU, even as the position continues to be largely phased out of modern college football.
LSU ranks 29th in the NCAA in rushing offense, but nearly every team ahead of the Tigers in the category runs some form of an option or spread rushing attack.
“I’ve always been a fan of the old school,” Stampley said. “To go out there and prove the fullback isn’t dead is a joy to