5 bold predictions for the LSU football season

Nov 8, 2014; Baton Rouge, LA, USA; LSU Tigers running back Leonard Fournette (7) is grabbed by Alabama Crimson Tide defensive lineman Jarran Reed (90) during the first quarter of a game at Tiger Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Derick E. Hingle-USA TODAY Sports

Running back Leonard Fournette is a preseason Heisman Trophy candidate in 2015, and rightfully so.

The versatile back possesses a rare combination of talent and physicality that very few players in the country, if any, can match. He has the speed to breakaway for a touchdown on any given play. Fournette put this ability on full display in LSU’s Music City Bowl loss to Notre Dame, breaking away for a 100-yard kickoff return and an 89-yard touchdown run.

He also has the power to lower his shoulder and completely embarrass defenders who dare stand between him and the end zone. Just ask Texas A&M safety Howard Mathews.

Last season, Fournette broke the LSU freshman rushing record with 1,026 rushing yards. Expect that number to skyrocket in 2015.

Typically, LSU running backs do not produce jaw-dropping numbers due to the running-back-by-committee system that Les Miles employs. Fournette is an exception.

Sure, he will lose carries to Darrell Williams, a power back who was one of the biggest surprises on the offense last season. The Tigers also have a talented trio of incoming freshman that will be competing for carries. Regardless, the offense is going to be largely centered around the running game. And consequently, riding on Fournette’s shoulders.

Given the LSU football team’s dedication to wearing down opponents on the ground, along with the fact that he will be running behind one of the most talented offensive lines in the SEC, Fournette is poised for a huge season.

If LSU finds itself in the College Football Playoff picture, I have little doubt that the star of the offense will be making an appearance at the Heisman Ceremony.

Next: An LSU wide receiver will be first team All-SEC