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The LSU Tigers ended their 2014 season 8-5 overall and 4-4 in the Southeastern Conference. Les Miles and his Tigers began the season strong, but struggled with the tough SEC teams. LSU lost their last game of the season to Norte Dame in the Music City Bowl 31-28.
LSU faces a tough schedule this season including four preseason top-25 teams and potentially more as the season progresses.
But 14th LSU seems to share the common issue of many SEC teams this 2015 season. Who will be the starting quarterback?
“Both quarterbacks have continued to improve and get better. Brandon Harris will take the first snap. He’s taken first snaps in every practice throughout the fall,” said LSU head man Les Miles. Anthony Jennings could see playing time as well.
On defense, the Tigers believe they have a right to be in the “Defensive Back University” debate and even refer to themselves as the reigning king. LSU is known for producing elite defensive performers like cornerback Patrick Peterson and free safety Tyrann Mathieu of the Arizona Cardinals, and cornerback Morris Claiborne of the Dallas Cowboys. Miles believes a strong LSU defense will show up in the opener.
“The defense is fast and physical. We recognize that we are playing an instate rival; a reason for the people of Louisiana to come into our stadium and celebrate Louisiana football.”
LSU also brought in new defensive coordinator Kevin Steele, who is a veteran at both the NFL and college football level. Coming from the successful Alabama Crimson Tide, where he coached the linebackers, Steele hopes to make LSU’s defense a tough unit.
McNeese State finished 6-5 overall in the Southland Conference a year ago but Miles knows he will be up against an in state rival bent on an upset.
“The preparation for a very fine McNeese team is exactly the same preparation that we’ve had in every season opener.”
Miles has recognized key threats the Cowboys will present in the opening game such as quarterback Daniel Sams who has proven to be a threat in his game play.
“We recognize that the quarterback has a dual threat capability. He can throw it and he can run it. We recognize that,” Miles said.
The LSU coach seems happy to be playing a fellow team from Louisiana that will showcase football in the state.
“Many of them are from Louisiana. We know them. We root for them when we don’t play them. We know them pretty well. We’ll look forward to a great night Saturday night in Tiger Stadium.”
Kickoff for the game is at 7:30 PM.
To hear audio from the story listen below:
Les Miles speaks on LSU defense
Les Miles discusses preparation for McNeese State
