LSU Football players spoke to the media following their 23-22 win over the Arkansas Razorbacks. Players included Quarterback Michael Van Buren Jr, Defensive Tackle Jacobian Guillory II, Cornerback Mansoor Delane, and Wide Receiver Zavion Thomas.
Seniors, and Louisiana natives, Guillory and Thomas reflected on their final game in Death Valley and the impact their time in Baton Rouge has had on them as players.
Jacobian Guillory, who grew up dreaming of wearing the purple and gold, said it will be an emotional moment as he steps onto the field in Death Valley for the last time.
“I knew from a young age, this was where I wanted to be. I am always grateful for the opportunity.” Said Guillory when reflecting on his career as a Tiger.
Zavion Thomas backed up that sentiment, emphasizing how meaningful his journey as a Tiger has been and how much he has grown during his time in the program.
“I’ll just try to take it day by day and probably be emotional. I’m not going to lie.” said the Mississippi State transfer when asked how he felt leading up to the final home game.
The players also praised quarterback Michael Van Buren Jr., who made his first career start as a Tiger during last Saturday’s matchup. Despite the pressure of the Battle of the Boot rivalry game, teammates said Van Buren carried himself with poise and confidence throughout the week up until kickoff.
Zavion Thomas even stated “We watched him the entire year, we knew what he was capable of. The coaches knew what he was capable of, that’s why they went in the portal and got him.”
As the Tigers approach their final games of the season, the team will continue to express their confidence that Van Buren’s ongoing development, combined with new leadership from Interim Head Coach Frank Wilson will keep LSU trending upward.
With key contributions from both emerging talent and departing veterans, LSU’s 2025-26 season will serve as a reminder of a program continuing the legacy of those who helped shape it.
The Tigers will be back in action Saturday, November 22, in Death Valley as they host the Hilltoppers of Western Kentucky. LSU will look to build on the momentum from its narrow win over Arkansas as they step outside of the SEC for a late-season matchup.
