LSU Football: 11 players named to Coaches Preseason All-SEC Team

Of all the preseason lists and predictions, none matter more than what the coaches produce. As such, we know SEC coaches view LSU Football in high regard.

The 2023 Preseason Coaches All-Southeastern Conference Football Team was released on Tuesday. As usual, Alabama and Georgia lead the way with 14 selections each. However, LSU Football is prominently featured, with 11 players making the cut.

Jayden Daniels (graduate) is rightfully listed as the quarterback of the coaches preseason All-SEC first team. He is joined by wide receiver Malik Nabers (junior) and offensive tackle Will Campbell (sophomore) on offense. Defensively, the coaches preseason All-SEC first team includes defensive lineman Maason Smith (sophomore) and Mekhi Wingo (junior) and linebacker Harold Perkins (sophomore).

The coaches preseason All-SEC second team includes tight end Mason Taylor (sophomore), offensive tackle Emery Jones Jr. (sophomore), and kickoff specialist Nathan Dibert (sophomore). Moreover, defensive back Greg Brooks (graduate) and long snapper Slade Roy (junior) round out the All-SEC third team.

Seeing LSU Football all over the coaches preseason All-SEC teams feels good. Fans might recall that only four Tigers received such honors before the 2022 season. Indeed, the uptick in votes indicates a paradigm shift in the SEC.

LSU has the talent and potential for a tremendous season, and the SEC Football coaches notice.

I have stated in previous articles that the coaches types are the most important among all preseason watch lists and rankings. Unlike the media and fans, coaches are true college football junkies. They’re the ones that watch countless hours of film and relentlessly study their opposition. I also think that coaches are often the most honest when ranking teams and players.

Nevertheless, the onus is on LSU Football to produce. I get many Tigers fans in the social media threads with statements indicating that the preseason rankings and lists do not matter. Indeed, the preseason hype is meaningless without production.

Still, it feels good that the coaches notice LSU Football is uber-talented and primed for a big season in year two under Brian Kelly.