LSU football: Five important players for 2016
By Mario Jerez
3. Maea Teuhema, LT
Protecting the quarterback’s blindside should be a priority for any team hoping to contend for a championship.
That’s why reliable left tackles in the NFL are paid so handsomely and why Teuhema (No. 75 pictured above) finds himself this high in these rankings. He didn’t completely lock down the No. 1 left tackle spot on the depth chart during spring practice. However, he will most likely be LSU’s week-one starter at the position, replacing Jerald Hawkins.
Teuhema played well at left guard in 2015, but sliding to tackle could be a different monster. LSU fans have become spoiled by solid tackle play and pass protection during the Miles era. Where those passes go are a different story, (see No. 1 in these rankings) but the Tigers still need Teuhema to thrive on the outside to get to where they want to be.
Remington Trophy hopeful Ethan Pocic and sophomore guard Will Clapp join Teuhema as returners to the offensive line. Under the tutelage of Miles and third-year offensive line coach Jeff Grimes, I would expect the 6’5″ sophomore to man the position nicely by the time September rolls around. Practicing against guys like Arden Key and Lewis Neal can’t hurt either, but Teuhema’s performance at left tackle in 2016 remains critical to LSU’s offensive success.
Next: No. 2 Arden Key