In our day one practice report, the standout observation was the defense’s resilience and competitiveness. The defense didn’t just hold its ground; it struck back with authority. They intercepted four passes from LSU quarterbacks, including two from freshman Colin Hurley. Ashton Stamps intercepted Garrett Nussmeyer, and PJ Woodland picked off Ricky Collins. Bernard Causey also had an opportunity for a fifth interception, which he unfortunately dropped, again targeting Ricky Collins.
Despite the defense’s activity and numerous plays, the LSU receivers and offense also showcased their prowess. Kyren Lacy, who dominated during spring practice, continued his impressive performance. He excelled in various routes, including a spectacular sideline catch over freshman Michael Turner, which drew a reaction from Corey Raymond.
One of the most significant highlights was seeing CJ Daniels in action. The first play in the seven-on-seven drills was a pass to Daniels over the middle. Watching Daniels in the number four jersey showed how well he fit into the role, demonstrating fluidity and presence on the field. His performance underscored the depth and talent within the LSU receiving corps, promising an exciting season ahead.
Watching him on the field, it’s clear that he belongs. He looks every bit the 1,000-yard receiver he was last year. Considering that your top three receivers are Kyren Lacy, Chris Hilton—who now wears the number three—and CJ Daniels, it’s evident that LSU has a formidable receiving corps to start the season.
Brian Kelly was specifically asked about Kyren Lacy, who transferred from ULL and initially had to wait his turn behind two first-round picks. Now, it’s his time to shine. Lacey’s growth has largely stemmed from his new role as the go-to guy. He has embraced his status as the veteran player, a mantle that some players struggle with when others move on.
“Most of his growth has been a virtue of him being the guy, if you will know, right? He is a veteran player, so sometimes that happens with attrition with guys moving on. Some guys don’t embrace it. You know they just continue to be who they are; he’s embraced that and wants to be that next great wide receiver at LSU. We have such a great tradition, so he wants to live up to that standard, so it’s been fun to watch that maturation.” Kelly said.
We’re always asking the same question: Who will be next? How will LSU replace its star receivers? After Odell Beckham Jr. and Jarvis Landry, DJ Chark stepped up with a stellar career. Then, following Jamar Chase and Justin Jefferson, Keyshawn Boutte emerged in 2020 with a breakout season.
A year later, as a freshman, Malik Nabers announced himself as the next great receiver, maintaining that level of excellence for two seasons. Brian Thomas Jr. stepped up significantly last year, becoming a first-round draft pick in 2023. Perhaps I’m using history as a predictive model, but Kyren Lacy, now entering his fifth year of college, seems poised for a breakout.
Lacy spent two years with the Cajuns, catching 28 passes as a freshman and 22 as a sophomore. When he transferred to LSU during Brian Kelly’s first year, there was a logjam at receiver, but Lacy still managed to haul in 24 receptions for 268 yards. With his experience and the opportunities ahead, Lacey is ready to step into the spotlight and continue the tradition of great LSU wide receivers.
Last year, Kyren Lacy caught 30 passes for 558 yards, averaging an impressive 18.6 yards per reception and scoring seven touchdowns. In his first season in Baton Rouge, he didn’t find the end zone, but last year, he became a big-play threat every time he touched the ball.
With the departure of the two 1,000-yard receivers ahead of him, it’s natural to expect his production to double. If he continues at this pace, 60 catches for 1,100 yards and 14 touchdowns seems possible and likely. I’d be surprised if he didn’t hit those numbers. The more intriguing question is the rest of the receiver room.
Just as we saw Boutte step up in 2020 as a freshman and Nabers make a strong impact in 2021, especially after Boutte’s injury in the Kentucky game, who will rise to the occasion behind Lacy?
Chris Hilton is a strong candidate. My notes from last year’s fall camp show Hilton as a player who made significant strides. Despite the competition, Hilton now appears ready to become a productive receiver when he gets his targets. Additionally, CJ Daniels looks the part and could be another key contributor to LSU’s dynamic receiving corps.
What’s likely more interesting and challenging for Joe Sloan is determining who plays what position among the receivers. Do you place smaller players like Aaron Anderson and Zavion Thomas in the slot, or do you create mismatches using big-bodied receivers? Sometimes, putting players like Malik Nabers or Brian Thomas in the slot can create significant mismatches. This flexibility allows Sloan to get creative with the lineup.
Last year, much of the focus was on Nabers and Thomas, with Lacy contributing 558 yards. Chris Hilton had 13 catches, and Aaron Anderson had 12, rounding out the primary receivers. Nabers, Thomas, Lacy, Hilton, and Anderson were the only five wide receivers with receptions, as the top two dominated the target share.
This year, the dynamic could shift. It’s possible that Kyren Lacy, Chris Hilton, and others could collectively amass around 150 receptions. Alternatively, the targets could be spread more evenly among four or five players. Regardless, there’s no need to worry about the receiving corps. Kyren Lacy is ready to lead, Chris Hilton is poised for a breakout year, and CJ Daniels looks impressive.
On the first day of practice, the 11-on-11 drills showcased Shelton Sampson, a former five-star recruit, making two impressive leaping catches on the sideline. This depth and talent suggest that LSU’s receiver room is well-prepared for a strong season.
Brian Kelly addressed Shelton Sampson’s performance after practice, highlighting Sampson’s impressive day despite being cut short due to a minor head injury. Kelly praised Sampson’s ability to go up and get the football, showcasing his competitive nature. Considering Sampson is currently projected as the fifth or sixth-best receiver on the team, his performance is what the coaching staff is looking for. His ability to make those contested catches and compete for the ball is a promising sign for LSU’s depth at the wide receiver position.
“He was not a 50-50 guy last year. He was a 20-80 guy. He lost 80% of those. I believe he’s a 50-50 guy. I mean, he can go and get those balls. Unfortunately, he hit his head when he came down, and they wanted to be cautious that he didn’t have a head injury. He was a little bit lightheaded. I was lightheaded out there today. So, we hope it’s not anything serious, and he can bounce back tomorrow.”
Last year, one standout moment was during the cornerback-receiver drills. Shelton Sampson ran a go-route and outpaced Deuce Chestnut, beating him by six yards. Although Sampson ultimately dropped the ball, the play highlighted his exceptional speed and size, which earned him his five-star rating.
Sampson’s ability to get off the line quickly and use his speed to create separation is impressive. However, his skill in making contested catches, like the ones he made on the sideline during practice, will earn him actual playing time this year. The coaching staff seeks difficult, high-pressure catches in a reliable receiver.
With a wealth of options at receiver for LSU this season, competition is fierce. However, Sampson’s potential to make big plays and his standout abilities make him a strong contender for significant reps in the Tigers’ offense.
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