Whit Weeks Is Healthy, But Blake Baker's LSU Defense Faces 5 Questions That Could Wreck Their 2026 Season

Alright, 12s, buckle up, because even when it's not our Seahawks on the field, the gridiron drama is real! Down in Baton Rouge, Blake Baker's LSU defense is hitting the 2026 season with five absolute monster questions. We're talking make-or-break stuff here. Baker stuck around, rejecting that Tulane job, which is huge for Lane Kiffin, but the unit itself? It's a total mix of proven vets and fresh faces, and how these five questions shake out is gonna decide if they're SEC elite or a total bust. The clock is ticking, folks!

The Return of a Leader and New Blood in the Secondary

First up, the heart of that defense, Whit Weeks. Dude's back healthy after an ankle injury, ready for his senior season, and he's gonna anchor the linebackers alongside TJ Dottery. Baker is counting on him to set the tone for the LSU Tigers defense, especially with that opener against Clemson less than 100 days away. This guy's return, and his veteran leadership, could totally determine if LSU starts fast and builds confidence. We've seen how crucial a healthy leader is, right?

Then there's the secondary. Ty Benefield, the transfer from Boise State, has been making serious waves. He quickly looked like one of the most ready players, earning praise for his leadership and versatility. 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. This guy brings size and experience. He's pairing up with Tamarcus Cooley, with Dashawn Spears at STAR. Benefield is a key piece in Baker's scheme, no doubt about it.

Trenches, Corners, and Edge Rush: Who Steps Up?

But it's not all sunshine and rainbows. That interior defensive line? It's a full-blown battle. We're talking spring standout Deuce Geralds, 5-star talent Richard Anderson, and Auburn transfer Malik Blocton all scrapping for snaps. Whoever wins that is gonna be absolutely critical for stopping the run. Then, the cornerbacks are facing a legit challenge. Aidan Anding tore his Achilles tendon in spring camp, leaving a massive hole at the CB4 spot. DJ Pickett and PJ Woodland are starting, but Ja’Keem Jackson, Michael Turner, Havon Finney Jr., and JUCO transfer Lavonte Williams are all fighting for that spot. Luckily, Corey Raymond is coaching these guys, and his reputation for developing elite corners has gotta give them some confidence, even with the injuries.

And don't even get me started on the edge rush. Gabriel Reliford is out after a torn ACL in spring camp, which means more opportunities for others. Ole Miss transfer Princewill Umanmielen is a big addition here, looking to fill those snaps.

So, what's the deal here? LSU is less than 100 days from their opener against the Clemson Tigers. These aren't just minor kinks; these are the core issues that will decide if Blake Baker's defense can actually be the monster unit Lane Kiffin needs for a real run. Keep your eyes on these questions, folks, because the answers are gonna tell us everything about their 2026 season. Can they clean it up before kickoff? We'll find out!

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