On Friday afternoon, Les Miles and five members of LSU’s junior class that opted to return next season met with the media and exuded optimism about next year’s team.
“As a group, they felt they had more to accomplish, Miles said. “It’s a great nucleus for a championship team.”
Cornerback Tre’Davious White, linebacker Kendell Beckwith, defensive tackle Christian LaCouture, defensive end Lewis Neal and offensive lineman Ethan Pocic all decided to return for their senior seasons. All five requested draft grades from the NFL draft advisory committee and ultimately made the decision to stay in Baton Rouge.
LaCouture, who suffered an injury in LSU’s Texas Bowl win against Texas Tech, said playing at LSU has been a dream come true.
“We expect to go out there and win a championship,” LaCouture said. “We have one more time to go.”
Beckwith and White, who are roommates, both talked to each other every day about returning for their senior season. White, said he received a first or second round grade and felt if he left for the draft he would not have performed at the level that he would like.
“I just didn’t want to be a guy in the league,” White said. “I want to be one of the premier corners in the league.”
Beckwith also mentioned, new defensive coordinator Dave Aranda, saying that he’s excited about his defense.
“I like the idea that he moves guys around,” Beckwith said. “I love that. The defense kind of features the linebackers.”
Aranda coached top ten defenses the past three years at Wisconsin and is known for his multiple style of defense.
The Tigers will return nine starters on offense and nine on defense and will also have 17 scholarship seniors.
“Anything other than a national championship is unacceptable at this university,” Neal said. “That’s one of the things that makes us play hard. I’m excited.”