LSU Football: The important position battle no one is talking about
By Zach Ragan
LSU football has an important position battle playing out that no one seems to be discussing.
LSU football knows that Myles Brennan will be the program’s starting quarterback in 2020.
But what happens if Brennan can’t play? Who starts then? It’s an important question that’s been overlooked with the recent news that wide receiver Ja’Marr Chase and defensive lineman Tyler Shelvin are opting out of the 2020 season.
The backup quarterback position is always important. Rarely does a team make it through a season without having to turn to the backup at least once.
In fact, a lot of times programs have to go to their No. 3 or No. 4 options. Quality depth is important.
It’s even more important in 2020 when a positive COVID-19 test could lead to Brennan having to miss a game (via either Brennan catching the virus or being exposed). It’s going to be an issue all season long. And while it’s impossible to predict if Brennan will miss time, it’s something that LSU has to prepare for this offseason.
LSU football’s backup quarterback options
The Tigers have two options for the No. 2 quarterback spot. And they’re both true freshmen.
Max Johnson and TJ Finley are currently battling it out behind Brennan. And for now, neither is a clear front runner.
“They’re really fighting really hard, they’re here on their own studying. I couldn’t have asked for two better young men as far as character, smarts and talent,” said Orgeron recently (via Sports Illustrated).
Johnson, the son of former NFL quarterback Brad Johnson, was the higher rated prospect and appears to be more “polished”. For now, I’d lean toward him being No. 2 on the depth chart this season.
But Finley, who has incredible arm talent, won’t be far behind.
This could be a case where we really have to see how the two young quarterbacks perform during games before we know which is truly the better option.
Either way, LSU better hope both prove to be solid options, because chances are high that the Tigers will need one (or both) of them before the 2020 season ends.
Next. Coach O isn't too concerned about replacing Ja'Marr Chase. dark
Relying on a true freshman at quarterback is a scary thought. But it’s a position that LSU could easily end up in this season.