The Woebegone LSU Offensive Line

by Becky

The offensive line, once a source of strength for the LSU Tigers, is at this point in the season one of its biggest question marks. Fans have to be worried with this fact as LSU has to face some of the best defensive lines in the nation playing in the brutally tough SEC. Here’s a look at the state of the offensive line at this point for LSU.

Left Guard

This is the one spot on the offensive line that LSU has a steady presence. La’el Collins is the best offensive lineman remaining on this battered Tigers’ squad. Collins has started every game this year at left guard and has been the best performer on the offensive line thus far. Going into the game with South Carolina, he leads the team with 20.5 knockdown blocks. Due to injury problems, Collins may slide to left tackle. This may happen sooner rather than later.


Right Guard

Josh Williford, the starter at right guard, is out for the South Carolina game with a head injury that he sustained during the loss to the Florida Gators. Trai Turner, a redshirt freshman, played 46 snaps against the Gators after Williford went out. He seems capable, but this position is still shaky right now.


Right Tackle

Alex Hurst, one of the best players on the offensive line, could capably play this position for the Tigers. However, he is reportedly dissatisfied with his position on the team. He missed two practices in the days leading up to the South Carolina game, and reports are that he is not even on campus. Vadal Alexander will have to step up his performance while filling in at right tackle.


Center

Senior P.J. Lonergan is a great leader at center. However, he has been battling back problems all season. This team really needs him to stay healthy to provide an anchor for this troubled offensive line. Elliot Porter is the backup if Lonergan’s back flares up and knocks him out.


Left Tackle

The problems with the LSU offensive line all got started with the season-ending injury to standout junior left tackle, Chris Faulk. With Faulk gone, sixth-year senior Josh Dworaczyk has to try his best to hold off the tremendously fast, superstar pass rushers that populate the ranks of SEC defensive lines. With his nagging injuries to both knees and a calf, his effectiveness may be limited. That is a scary thought for people who bought their LSU season tickets with the best rate on credit cards.