For junior wide receivers Rueben Randle and Russell Shepard, living up to the expectations of being a five-star recruit has thus far not gone as planned.
With the departure of Terrence Toliver to the NFL, both Randle and Shepard are at the top of the depth chart with the opportunity to impact the passing game immediately. Toliver led LSU wide receivers in receptions, receiving yards and touchdowns in 2010.
This season, LSU coaches have expressed confidence in their most veteran receivers.
LSU offensive coordinator Greg Studrawa lauded Randle’s hard work and his development into a vocal leader, but said it will be hard for Randle to contribute as a leader if he is not producing on the field or playing confidently.
“Once that happens, the leadership ability will enhance not only with him, but in the eyes of the team,” Studrawa said.
Randle, who is on the 2011 Biletnikoff Award watch list, had 33 catches for 544 yards last year.
Shepard said he has worked on route-running and receiving fundamentals since he arrived at LSU. Both players are already drawing high praise from LSU coach Les Miles.