QB controversy begins again
Randall, Clausen expected to see playing time against Rebels
By Ronnie Richard, Assistant Sports Editor
PHOTO
The LSU football team is looking for its leaders to step forward after losing two of its past three games, said LSU head coach Nick Saban following Wednesday’s practice.
The leadership of last year’s team was key to the Tigers’ success, but this year’s team is struggling to find its place, Saban said.
“[Last year] everybody had a role on the team,” he said. “And it was very important to everybody, regardless of what that role was, for them to do it well.”
Saban said some players are having trouble with the team’s shortcomings this season.
“Anytime you don’t have success, a lot of things get magnified,” he said. “All the negative things get magnified. We cannot as a team let that affect our confidence and our trust in each other.”
The team has featured both Marcus Randall and Rick Clausen at quarterback this week, and Saban said Saturday’s starter will not be chosen until the day of the game.
Each quarterback is expected to see playing time against Ole Miss, regardless of who is named the starter.
“I feel like both guys have had good weeks and made progress,” Saban said. “I think the guy that we feel can go in the game and do the best job to help our offense do what we feel like we need to do to be successful in this game is the one that will play.”
Saban said Randall has played well at times this season, but has also gotten frustrated with his mistakes. His frustration, in turn, has led to more mistakes.
The competition for the starting job should lead to both players reaching a higher level, he said.
Running back LaBrandon Toefield is expected to see more carries Saturday after playing for the first time last weekend since his breaking his arm in the Louisiana-Lafayette game.
Toefield ran six times for 26 yards and participated in 20-25 plays against Alabama. Saban said he expects Toefield to get at least twice as many carries against Ole Miss.
“He’s gotten hit a lot more at practice this week,” he said. “I think he’s a lot more game-ready this week.”
Saban said the defense has made significant adjustments this week in preparing for a team that passes the ball, as compared to teams such as Auburn and Alabama that rely primarily on the running game.
The problem with the run defense in the past few games has been injuries to the Tigers’ front four.
“All you have to do is watch them play to see that,” Saban said. “They have not been able to make some of the plays they have made in the past, but I do feel like we’re a lot better from that standpoint this week.
Injuries
Running back Domanick Davis practiced in a red shirt after suffering an injury to his thigh Tuesday, but is expected to be ready Saturday.
Defensive end Marquis Hill remained in a red shirt as he continues to nurse his shoulder injury. His status for the game is questionable.
Safety Travis Moses has not returned to practice following a knee scope and will not play Saturday.