LSU Football: 10 Players the Tigers Can’t Afford to Lose

Oct 17, 2015; Baton Rouge, LA, USA; LSU Tigers running back Leonard Fournette (7) carries the ball past Florida Gators defensive back Keanu Neal (42) during the second half at Tiger Stadium. LSU defeated Florida 35-28. Mandatory Credit: Crystal LoGiudice-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 17, 2015; Baton Rouge, LA, USA; LSU Tigers running back Leonard Fournette (7) carries the ball past Florida Gators defensive back Keanu Neal (42) during the second half at Tiger Stadium. LSU defeated Florida 35-28. Mandatory Credit: Crystal LoGiudice-USA TODAY Sports /
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Donavaughn Campbell LSU
Oct 11, 2014; Gainesville, FL, USA; LSU Tigers helmet lays on the sidelines against the Florida Gators during the second half at Ben Hill Griffin Stadium. LSU Tigers defeated the Florida Gators 30-27. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports /

No. 5 Will Clapp

As one of the first non-senior players on this list (a sophomore), the importance of offensive lineman Will Clapp will be huge both this year and the next. Clapp was thrust into the starting lineup at the center position early on during spring practice as a freshman and definitely seems to have the trust of Les Miles and the rest of the coaching staff.

Prior to the start of the season, Clapp would switch places with Ethan Pocic. Before the end of last season, Clapp would earn the honor of being named a Freshman All-American at the guard position by Sporting News and will likely see most of his playing time there next year.

Clapp started all 12 games last season and did not give up a single sack. Both in the rushing and passing games, LSU’s success will largely hinge on the continued performance and improvement of its young linemen like Clapp, and he looks to build upon his fantastic performance from last year. He sat out the spring due to an injury, but barring any unforeseen events, he is expected to be a huge factor for the Tigers next year.

Clapp’s father Tommy is a former Tiger and four-year starter, and Will seems to be carrying on the legacy very well.

Next: No. 4 Jamal Adams