LSU's Defense Has 5 Massive Questions, and Blake Baker Has Less Than 100 Days to Build a Monster

Alright, Emerald City faithful, listen up! While we're all fired up watching our Mariners blast dingers and our Seahawks get ready for a new era, there's some wild stuff brewing down in Baton Rouge with LSU football. Coach Blake Baker, the defensive mastermind, was tied to that Tulane job, right? But he stayed! And now, the guy's got his work cut out for him with a defense that's got five HUGE question marks heading into 2026. This isn't just about winning games, folks, it's about whether this unit becomes an absolute MONSTER or falls flat.

The Vets Are Back, But Can They Deliver?

Leading the charge is linebacker Whit Weeks, who's back healthy after an ankle injury. It's his senior season, and he's ready to reclaim his status as the leader of that LSU defense. He'll anchor the linebacking group with TJ Dottery, which should give them some much-needed stability. With less than 100 days until the opener against the Clemson Tigers in Death Valley, they're gonna rely on Weeks to set the tone. His return could absolutely determine if LSU starts fast and competes with confidence on defense. Then there's Ty Benefield, the safety transfer from Boise State, who's been making waves. He totally impressed everyone during offseason camp, looking like one of the most ready players in the secondary. Praised for his leadership and versatility, Benefield brings serious size and experience, too. He was a three-year starter at Boise State, earned All-Mountain West honors last year, and racked up 107 tackles while starting 28 straight games. He’ll pair with Tamarcus Cooley, while Dashawn Spears holds down the STAR position. This guy is a key piece for Blake Baker's defense and a major factor for LSU’s outlook this season. But it’s not all sunshine and rainbows. Aidan Anding’s Achilles tendon tear in offseason camp created a massive hole at cornerback. The secondary is facing a real challenge, with DJ Pickett and PJ Woodland as starters, but a fierce competition for that CB4 spot. Ja’Keem Jackson, Michael Turner, Havon Finney Jr., and JUCO transfer Lavonte Williams are all battling it out heading into fall camp. Luckily, they've got Corey Raymond coaching, whose track record of developing elite cornerbacks gives the staff confidence that these younger guys can step up fast.

Who's Going to Step Up in the Trenches?

The defensive line is another area with big questions, especially the interior. There’s a heated battle brewing between spring standout Deuce Geralds, 5-star talent Richard Anderson, and Auburn transfer Malik Blocton. You know that kind of competition makes everyone better, but someone’s gotta win those snaps! And don't even get me started on the edge rush group. It’s a mix of opportunity and uncertainty right now. Gabriel Reliford is out after tearing his ACL in offseason camp, which means new snaps are open for the taking. Ole Miss transfer Princewill Umanmielen is going to be crucial here. He’s got to hit the ground running for them to bring consistent pressure. So, with less than 100 days until they face the Clemson Tigers, every single one of these questions is critical. Will Weeks be the leader they need? Will Benefield live up to the hype? Who's holding down that CB4 spot? And who's bringing the heat off the edge? The answers aren't just for LSU fans, they're for anyone who loves hard-nosed football. This is about building a unit ready to rumble, and we'll be watching every snap!

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