LSU Tigers’ Blake Baker reveals key returning standout playmakers who could make a huge impact alongside important transfers

As LSU prepares for the upcoming football season, defensive coordinator Blake Baker has been vocal about the talented group of players poised to elevate the Tigers’ defense to new heights. His insights shed light on the players who will be central to LSU’s defensive success, highlighting key returning standouts and promising transfers who could have a transformative impact. This analysis delves into the profiles of these players, the strategic roles they are expected to fill, and how their combined efforts could position LSU as a formidable force in 2024.

### The Importance of Defense at LSU and Baker’s Defensive Philosophy

LSU has cultivated a proud defensive tradition, emphasizing aggressive pass-rushing, stout run defense, and versatile coverage schemes. Under Blake Baker, the defense has focused on adaptability, creating complex blitz packages and utilizing personnel to neutralize opponents’ strengths. Baker’s scheme relies heavily on disciplined linebackers, disruptive defensive linemen, and versatile safeties capable of both coverage and run support.

In 2024, LSU’s defensive success hinges on a core group of returning players who understand the system, combined with impactful transfers who can quickly adapt and fill critical roles. Baker’s comments underscore a belief that LSU’s talent pool, both seasoned and new, is capable of anchoring a defense that can dominate SEC opponents and challenge nationally.

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### Returning Standout Playmakers: The Heart of LSU’s Defense

**1. Harold Perkins Jr. — The Dynamic Linebacker and Defensive Catalyst**

Perhaps the most celebrated returning defender, Harold Perkins Jr. is expected to be the centerpiece of LSU’s defense. Perkins exploded onto the scene as a true freshman with his relentless pass-rushing, sideline-to-sideline range, and instinctive playmaking. His versatility allows him to line up at linebacker or edge rusher, making him a matchup nightmare for offenses.

Baker emphasizes Perkins’ growth in understanding schemes, which will enable him to be more disciplined in coverage responsibilities while still unleashing his blitzing prowess. LSU fans can expect Perkins to be the team’s disruptor, leading the defense in sacks, tackles for loss, and turnovers. His leadership as a returning veteran will also be vital in guiding the younger players.

**2. Maason Smith — The Defensive Tackle and Disruptor Inside**

After missing most of 2023 due to injury, Maason Smith’s return is a major boost for LSU’s interior defensive line. Smith’s combination of size, agility, and relentless motor makes him a disruptive force in the middle, capable of collapsing the pocket and clogging running lanes.

Baker notes that Smith’s presence allows LSU to deploy more aggressive schemes, trusting their interior to generate pressure without always blitzing. His leadership and veteran experience will be crucial in anchoring the defensive front, especially against the run.

**3. Greg Brooks Jr. — The Veteran Cornerback and Defensive Leader**

In the secondary, Greg Brooks Jr. stands out as a seasoned veteran with leadership qualities and a knack for making plays. His experience in LSU’s system, combined with his ball skills and coverage ability, makes him a key figure in LSU’s pass defense.

Baker expects Brooks to be a vocal leader in the secondary, guiding younger cornerbacks and safeties. His ability to cover top receivers and make critical tackles will be essential in slowing down SEC passing attacks.

**4. Major Burns — The Hard-Hitting Safety**

Major Burns, a physical safety with excellent instincts and ball skills, is another returning standout. His aggressive style and leadership in the back end will be vital in LSU’s pass coverage and run support.

Baker highlights Burns’ ability to read plays quickly and provide leadership in the secondary, especially in high-pressure situations. His presence in the backfield helps LSU maintain a balanced, aggressive defense.

**5. BJ Ojulari — The Edge Rusher**

BJ Ojulari, an experienced pass rusher, has been a consistent producer for LSU. His ability to rush the quarterback from the edge, combined with solid run defense, makes him a key component of LSU’s front.

Baker praises Ojulari’s motor and technique, expecting him to be a primary threat in LSU’s pass rush schemes and a leader along the defensive front.

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### The Impact of Transfers: New Faces with Major Potential

While LSU’s returning players form the backbone of the defense, the transfer portal has played a pivotal role in enhancing the roster with experienced, high-impact athletes. Baker’s comments reveal optimism about the immediate contributions of these newcomers.

**1. Harold Perkins Jr. (Transfer from Texas A&M)**

Though Perkins was already a returning standout, his continued development and leadership, combined with the experience he gained in the SEC, make him a centerpiece of LSU’s defense. Baker expects Perkins to not only be disruptive but also to serve as a mentor for new players.

**2. Anthony Bradford — The Transfer Defensive Lineman**

An interior lineman transferred from Ole Miss, Bradford brings size, strength, and SEC experience. Baker sees him as a plug-and-play player who can bolster LSU’s run defense and provide depth on the interior line. His versatility allows him to shift between multiple positions along the defensive front.

**3. Colby Richardson — The Transfer Cornerback**

A transfer from Nebraska, Richardson is expected to compete immediately for playing time in LSU’s secondary. Baker highlights his size, athleticism, and experience against high-caliber competition, making him a valuable addition in defending the pass.

**4. Mekhi Garner (Transfer from LSU to LSU)**

While Garner previously transferred out, LSU’s recent emphasis on bringing back players via the transfer portal underscores the program’s strategy of acquiring experienced talent. If LSU were to bring back familiar faces like Garner, Baker emphasizes the importance of experienced depth and leadership.

**5. Transfer Defensive Ends and Linebackers**

LSU has also added transfers at linebacker and defensive end positions, aiming to bolster pass rush and run defense. Players like Mekhi Garner or recent additions such as transfer linebackers from Power Five programs are expected to provide depth and fill specific roles in LSU’s complex defensive schemes.

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### Strategic Implications: How These Players Shape LSU’s Defensive Approach

Baker’s emphasis on the returning standouts and impactful transfers signals a defense built on experience, versatility, and aggressive schemes. LSU’s defensive philosophy in 2024 is expected to revolve around:

– **Multiple Fronts and Hybrid Schemes:** Using players like Perkins and Ojulari in various roles to confuse offenses.
– **Disruptive Pass Rush:** Relying on interior pressure from Smith and external pressure from Ojulari and transfers to generate sacks.
– **Versatile Coverage:** Employing safeties like Burns and cornerbacks like Brooks and Richardson to lock down receivers and create turnovers.
– **Aggressive Run Defense:** Using Smith, Bradford, and veteran linebackers to contain the run game and force offenses into predictable passing situations.

The depth and experience of the roster allow Baker to deploy complex blitz packages and adapt to different offensive schemes, making LSU’s defense a formidable unit capable of controlling games.

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### Player Profiles and Expectations for 2024

**Harold Perkins Jr.:** The undisputed star of LSU’s defense, Perkins aims to build on his breakout sophomore season. With increased understanding of the scheme, he’s projected to lead LSU in sacks and tackles for loss. His leadership and versatility will be central to LSU’s pass rush and linebacker corps.

**Maason Smith:** Returning from injury, Smith’s health and performance will be pivotal. If he regains full strength, he could be a first-round NFL draft pick and anchor LSU’s interior line, providing pressure from the middle and freeing up other defenders.

**Greg Brooks Jr.:** As a veteran cornerback, Brooks’ experience and coverage skills will help LSU handle the SEC’s top passing offenses. His leadership will be especially crucial in high-pressure situations.

**Major Burns:** Burns’ physicality and instincts will be vital in the secondary. His ability to play multiple roles in coverage and run support will help LSU defend against diverse offensive threats.

**BJ Ojulari:** As a consistent pass rusher, Ojulari’s motor and technique will be key in LSU’s defensive game plan. He’s expected to rack up sacks and pressure quarterbacks throughout the season.

**Transfers like Anthony Bradford and Colby Richardson:** These players will be expected to step in quickly, providing immediate impact on the defensive line and secondary, respectively. Their SEC experience is a valuable asset in LSU’s plans.

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### The Broader Impact and Future Outlook

Blake Baker’s transparency about LSU’s key returning players and impactful transfers reflects a strategic focus on building a resilient, versatile defense. The combination of experienced starters and talented newcomers positions LSU to be among the top defenses in the SEC and nationally.

This depth and talent infusion could translate into multiple wins against SEC foes, especially if these players perform up to expectations. The leadership of veterans like Perkins, Brooks, and Burns, combined with the energy and talent of transfers, creates a cohesive unit capable of executing complex schemes and adapting to diverse offensive challenges.

Furthermore, LSU’s emphasis on player development and leveraging the transfer portal demonstrates a modern approach to roster building, prioritizing immediate impact and long-term growth. The coaching staff’s ability to integrate these players seamlessly will be critical.

A Defense Poised for Greatness

In summary, LSU’s defense in 2024 is set to be led by a core of returning standouts—Harold Perkins Jr., Maason Smith, Greg Brooks Jr., Major Burns, BJ Ojulari—and bolstered by strategic transfers. Blake Baker’s insights reveal a confident, cohesive unit capable of disrupting opponents’ offenses and dictating the pace of games.

The combination of veteran leadership, high-impact transfers, and innovative scheming makes LSU’s defense one of the most exciting units to watch in college football this season. Fans and analysts alike are eager to see how these players translate Baker’s vision into on-field dominance, potentially leading LSU back to national prominence on the strength of its defense.