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Young Players Fuel Competition at Skill Positions
By Bud Johnson Photos provided by LSU Sports Information
Anthony Jennings
Quarterback Conversation Most LSU fans are talking about the competition at quarterback this season between Brandon Harris, a true freshman, and sophomore Anthony Jennings. But the Tigers have many talented freshmen vying for playing time this season. Look for Leonard Fournette, a freshman tailback, and rookie receivers Malachi Dupre and Trey Quinn to be added to the discussion before the season ends.
Brandon Harris
In any other year, LSU would be consumed by the dreaded (cue Beethoven’s Fifth) . . . QUARTERBACK CONTROVERSY. Two young quarterbacks – sophomore Anthony Jennings and freshman Brandon Harris – are likely to share the playing time this season. Jennings has game experience in his favor. Harris, according to the recruiting experts, has a “cannon for an arm.” Both are effective ball carriers. If either has an edge at this stage, it is Harris, whose upside as a passer has impressed everyone close to the team. However, the quarterback derby may not occupy center stage in Tigertown in 2014. Talented young players are providing competition at the skill positions on offense, such as the No. 1 recruit in the country – running back Leonard Fournette. Anywhere else he might be the featured back from day one. Fournette has all the tools – size, speed, power, balance, good hands, peripheral vision plus a great attitude. He impressed his teammates and his coaches with his attitude . . . before the team ever took the practice field. Fournette may wind up as the Tigers’ most productive back. But senior Terrence Magee will not be easily relegated to No. 2. Only a battering ram named Jeremy Hill made him No. 2 last year. Magee has plenty of ability, and is recognized as a team leader. Football experts named him to the Doak Walker Award (a coveted prize for running backs) watch list, before the season started. Magee is held in such high esteem by his team members that he will wear No. 18 this season. That number was first worn by quarterback Matt Mauck during the 2003 national championship season. No one wears that number at LSU unless he has leadership qualities and a selfless, “team first” demeanor. Two other tailbacks – senior Kenny Hilliard and freshman Darrell Williams – will compete for playing time. Historically, Coach Les Miles has had success playing multiple running backs in every game. The discussion among the Tiger faithful will focus upon which player should get the most opportunities with the football.
50 LSU Alumni Magazine | Fall 2014