LSU's Defense Has 5 Burning Questions Right Now, And Blake Baker Is On The Clock

Alright, Emerald City, listen up! While we're all fired up about our own teams, let's talk about something brewing down in Baton Rouge that's got everyone buzzing. LSU's defense, man. Head coach Blake Baker? He's got five monster questions staring him down as they gear up for the 2026 season. And if he doesn't nail the answers, that unit could go from an elite SEC unit to falling short of expectations real fast. This isn't just about winning games, folks, it's about whether Blake Baker can build an absolute monster or totally whiff. You know the feeling, right? That gut-wrenching 'what if?' Let's dive in!

New Faces and Fierce Fights in the Trenches

The roster is a wild mix of established guys and fresh blood, which is always exciting but also a bit nerve-wracking. We’re talking about transfer portal heavy-hitters like Princewill Umanmielen, who's expected to bring instant impact, and young talents like Dominick McKinley and Richard Anderson, who add upside in the trenches. But here’s the kicker: that interior defensive line? It's a fierce battle. You’ve got spring standout Deuce Geralds duking it out with five-star Richard Anderson and Auburn transfer Malik Blocton. That’s a three-way fight for snaps, and the winner of that spot will be critical for their run defense. You love to see that kind of competition, but it means Baker has to make some really tough calls.

Secondary Scrambles and the Return of a Leader

It’s not just the D-line, though. The secondary is facing its own gauntlet. Aidan Anding tearing his Achilles tendon in spring camp? Man, that's brutal, and it’s blown open the CB4 spot. Now it’s a free-for-all with guys like Ja’Keem Jackson, Michael Turner, Havon Finney Jr., and JUCO transfer Lavonte Williams all fighting for that crucial role behind starters DJ Pickett and PJ Woodland. Corey Raymond’s coaching gives them confidence despite the uncertainty, which is huge. But hey, there's a silver lining here in the form of Ty Benefield. This safety, a Boise State transfer, has impressed throughout the offseason. He brings leadership, versatility, size, and experience. He was a three-year starter at Boise State, earned All-Mountain West honors last year, and recorded 107 tackles while starting 28 straight games. That's a serious player, and he’s pairing up with Tamarcus Cooley with Dashawn Spears at STAR. He’s a key piece for Baker, no doubt. And get this: linebacker Whit Weeks is back and healthy after an ankle injury. Dude is a senior, and he's ready to lead that defense, anchoring the linebacking group with TJ Dottery. His return could determine whether LSU starts fast and competes for a playoff run. So, yeah, there’s a lot going on. With Gabriel Reliford out due to a torn ACL, guys like Ole Miss transfer Princewill Umanmielen will see opportunities, and the edge rush situation, along with the readiness of Lamar Brown, is another huge unknown. LSU is less than 100 days from their opener against the Clemson Tigers. Every single one of these defensive questions has to be answered, and answered right, if Lane Kiffin's squad wants to even think about an elite season. Blake Baker’s on the clock, and the future of that defense? It's hanging in the balance. We're watching, folks. We're always watching. Go Hawks! Wait, Go Tigers! You know what I mean, right?

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