LSU Football: How Max Johnson has the right approach to running Tigers’ offense

LSU football is off to a shaky start in 2021, but the program appears to be progressing in the right direction after three weeks thanks in large part to the play of sophomore quarterback Max Johnson.

Johnson, who started the final two games of the 2020 season as a true freshman (going 2-0 in those games), is off to a solid start this season.

The son of Super Bowl-winning quarterback Brad Johnson has tossed for 863 yards, 11 touchdowns, and only two interceptions in three games.

It helps that Johnson has some elite playmakers at this disposal. Kayshon Boutte is arguably one of the top five wide receivers in the nation. Other players — such as freshman tight end Jack Bech and freshman running back Corey Kiner — have also stepped up in a big way to help Johnson.

Max Johnson’s approach to running LSU football’s offense

Earlier this month, Tigers head coach Ed Orgeron made it clear he wanted the ball in the hands of playmakers — Boutte, specifically — more often.

That’s certainly a wise approach — Boutte definitely needs to touch the ball often.

Johnson, however, isn’t necessarily worried about who gets the ball and how often they get it.

It’s not that he’s ignoring Orgeron’s advice. Johnson is just willing to take what the defense gives him — he’s not going to force something that isn’t there.

Here’s what Johnson said about playmakers “getting their share” this week.

From 247Sports:

"Johnson: “I just think it’s not about whether it’s a piece of the pie, I think it’s just about winning. Whether if one person gets the ball or all the receivers get the ball, I think it’s just winning and putting the ball in the playmakers’ hands and letting them make plays.”"

I like this approach from Johnson. He’s not getting overly concerned with who is catching the ball during the course of the game.

It’s up to offensive coordinator Jake Peetz to scheme open Boutte and other playmakers. If they’re open, Johnson will get the ball to them.

Johnson is simplifying the game by just focusing on attacking the defense.

I can’t think of a better approach that Johnson could have while leading LSU’s offense.