We asked the team at 104.5 ESPN Baton Rouge to identify the “most indispensable” player on LSU’s roster outside of quarterback Garrett Nussmeier. Here’s what they had to say:
Jacob Hester, Co-Host Off the Bench: It has to be Jacobian Guillory for me. I know you normally wouldn’t hear a DT being picked in a category like this, but as we all know it’s probably the thinnest position group on the team. Guillory is the only player at the position that you’ve seen play at a high level in the SEC. If he goes down, you’d be counting on an unproven transfer or a true freshman.
T-Bob Hebert, Co-Host, Off the Bench: Will Campbell. I thought about going with Harold Perkins, but, as the offense is the strength of this team and Will Campbell is arguably the strongest link, I believe he is the most indispensable. Losing Campbell would be a MASSIVE functional blow as all of a sudden the key to your revamped running game and your new quarterback’s best protection would be gone. However, I could argue it would be an even larger morale blow for the team and that the mental damage would be even worse.
Taylor Sharp, Video Producer, Off the Bench: It has to be Will Campbell. He’s a three-year starter at LT and there’s not a ton of experience behind him. The “best” position group on this team is considered offensive line and he’s the best piece of that unit. Tyree Adams and Ory Williams would have to be thrown into the fire if Campbell went down.
Alondra Villareal, Audio Producer, Off the Bench: I feel like the obvious answer here in Harold Perkins. He’s a huge piece in the much-needed improvement of the defense. We know and have seen how impactful of a player he is, and Blake Baker, and everybody else for that matter, has raved about his improvement this year. I think in a year where this defense needs to prove itself, Harold Perkins plays a pivotal role.
Charles Hanagriff, Co-Host, Live at Lunch: Will Campbell. LSU’s two starting guards and tackles have combined to play 127 college games with 110 starts. It will be the undoubted strength of this team, but it leaves the second unit with very little experience. Campbell is the best player of those four, and it’s hard to imagine LSU’s offense without him.
Hunt Palmer, Host, The Hunt Palmer Show: Can I make a case for Mason Taylor? He’s been rock solid at the position since his freshman season. He’s clearly the most physical presence in a tight end group that is very short on depth with Mac Markway’s departure. I think Taylor is second to Kyren Lacy in catches this year and becomes a second day NFL Draft choice.
Jacob Beck, Audio Producer, The Hunt Palmer Show: Harold Perkins. He’s the best player LSU has on the defensive side of the ball and is going to be vital in helping them get off the field on 3rd down with his ability to rush the passer. He provides a lot of utility to this defense with how versatile he is, and without him they lose a lot of bite.
Matt Moscona, Host, After Further Review: Jacobian Guillory. There is an embarrassment of riches offensively, so they can overcome any loss aside from Nussmeier. They have a lot of bodies at defensive tackle, but Guillory is their best and most experienced. If he went down, there is no clear answer of who would be next up.
Matthew Musso, Audio Producer, After Further Review: Jacobian Guillory. Defensive tackle is a big worry spot for me with this team. Guillory has been their most effective and experienced veteran guy at the position. Losing him would feel a lot like losing Mekhi Wingo last season.
