Blake Baker's LSU Defense Has 5 Massive Questions and The Answers Could Shock College Football

Alright, Seattle, listen up! You know I bleed green and blue, but when big football news drops, no matter where it's happening, we gotta talk about it! And right now, all eyes should be on Baton Rouge, because Blake Baker’s LSU defense is facing down some HUGE questions heading into the 2026 season. This isn't just a few tweaks, folks. We're talking about five major unknowns that will absolutely decide if Baker builds an elite SEC unit or if they fall short of everything expected. Baker stayed, dodging the Tulane job, which is massive for Lane Kiffin, but the roster is a mix of vets and new blood. Keep an eye on transfers like Princewill Umanmielen and young guns Dominick McKinley and Richard Anderson in the trenches. This is make-or-break stuff!

Whit Weeks and Ty Benefield: The Leaders We Need?

First up, the heart of the defense: Whit Weeks. He's back healthy after an ankle injury, ready to anchor the linebacking group for his senior season alongside TJ Dottery. If LSU wants to start fast, especially with that opener against the Clemson Tigers, Weeks setting the tone in Death Valley is non-negotiable. His veteran leadership is crucial. Then there’s Ty Benefield, the transfer safety from Boise State. This dude impressed everyone in spring camp, looking ready to roll from day one. He’s got leadership, versatility, and serious size. Forget about "potential," Benefield was a three-year starter, earned All-Mountain West honors last year, racked up 107 tackles, and started 28 straight games! He’ll pair with Tamarcus Cooley, with Dashawn Spears at STAR. This guy is a certified key piece for Baker's defense and LSU's whole outlook for 2026.

Secondary Woes and Edge Rush Opportunities

Now, for some real worries, especially in the secondary. Aidan Anding’s torn Achilles tendon in spring camp blew a massive hole in their cornerback depth. DJ Pickett and PJ Woodland are your starters, but that CB4 spot? It's a wide-open battle with Ja’Keem Jackson, Michael Turner, Havon Finney Jr., and JUCO transfer Lavonte Williams all fighting for it. Coach Corey Raymond’s track record for developing elite cornerbacks is giving the staff confidence, but man, that's a lot of pressure on young guys to step up immediately. And speaking of pressure, the edge rush group has both opportunity and uncertainty. Gabriel Reliford is out with a torn ACL from spring camp, which means more snaps are up for grabs. Ole Miss transfer Princewill Umanmielen and Tennessee transfer Jordan Ro now have a huge chance to make an impact right away. These aren't minor issues, people. These are the five biggest questions facing LSU's defense, and how Blake Baker answers them will shape their entire season. That opener against the Clemson Tigers? It's going to be a gut check, a true test of whether this unit is ready to roll. We're watching to see if these guys can come together and make some noise.

This article was created with AI assistance and reviewed by Seattle On Tap editorial staff. Always verify information with official team sources.