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Three Intriguing Players to Watch for LSU vs. Louisiana Tech
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- Three Intriguing Players to Watch for LSU vs. Louisiana Tech
| Source: Lastwordonsports.com - Tony Siracusa, CFB Managing Editor
The LSU Tigers are set to host an in-state opponent in Louisiana Tech after a resounding Week One win . The Sun Belt visitors won't generate the excitement of last week's opener, but there are three players to watch for LSU in this game for varying reasons. We'll profile each one and explain why they're such intriguing figures for the Tigers on Saturday and beyond.
Players to Watch for LSU
Stacy Gage, Running Back
The third-year UCF transfer was one of the biggest surprises of Week One for those who haven't followed the program closely. Reports from Spring camp didn't include much news on Gage or his impact on the team. In fact, most of the talk surrounding the running back room was about Wisconsin transfer Dilin Jones and his surge to the top of the depth chart.
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However, Gage continued to quietly but consistently work his way into the rotation. By the end of Fall camp, he'd passed highly regarded returners Harlem Berry and Caden Durham . After gaining 63 yards in eight games in 2025, Gage gained roughly half of that in one game at LSU. He finished with eight carries for 33 yards in his first game as a Tiger.
The Florida native's ascension to RB2 is a credit to his work ethic, but also an indication of this staff's approach to the run game. Lane Kiffin and Charlie Weis, Jr. seem to prefer thickly built, physical backs who can thrive between the tackles and stay on the field for three downs. Gage's 205-pound frame fits what this offense wants to do. But part of us wonders if Berry's big play potential becomes too tempting to remain sidelined. The running back production in this game could easily affect the rotation moving forward.
PJ Woodland, CB
LSU allowed only 105 passing yards against Clemson, so why would a cornerback be under the spotlight? In an odd but impressive twist, the defensive line was so dominant last week that we couldn't adequately gauge how good the Tigers were in the secondary. Chris Vizzina rarely had time, so Clemson simply didn't have the opportunity to test LSU down the field often.
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Neither Woodland nor DJ Pickett allowed many completions when targeted in Week One. But we chose Woodland as the player to watch for LSU, because he'll likely get the most challenging matchup due to the Bulldogs' personnel packages. Tech's most explosive receiver is Jalen Mickens , who lines up in the slot and averaged 44 (yes, 44) yards per catch last week. His presence will dictate more nickel personnel from LSU, which will shift Woodland inside when Ja'Keem Jackson comes on the field.
Woodland is the most veteran cornerback on LSU's team, so we expect him to hold his own. But we haven't seen this group truly tested, so the jury is still out on how good the LSU cornerbacks are without Mansoor Delane. Mickens should provide a speedy challenge.
Philip Wright, WR
Speaking of speed, Wright showed a gear that we're not sure if any other LSU wide receiver has on his 33-yard catch and run for a touchdown. He was the only returning receiver that Kiffin retained from the Tigers' 2025 roster, and he showed us why last week. Even in an incredibly deep room, Wright's skill set stands out.
Stephen Lew-Imagn Images
It appears that LSU's rotation at receiver is still working itself out. Malik Elzy started the game against Clemson along with Florida transfer Tre Wilson, but we didn't see much of Elzy after an early drop resulted in an interception. Wilson and Ole Miss transfer Winston Watkins saw most of the action, but Jackson Harris and Corey Barber were also targeted. Playing time is seemingly up for grabs in the deepest position group on the team, but every receiver is fighting for touches behind star tight end Trey'Dez Green .
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Wright's acceleration is a sight to behold, and his ability to run after the catch fits well with what this offense wants to stress defense with RPO's and the quick passing game. His emergence could give LSU yet another explosive weapon in this opportunistic offense. Saturday provides the next chance for him to stake his claim to a more prominent role.
Main Image: USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
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