Boot will meet ball on Saturday Night in Death Valley.
LSU and Clemson will kick off in one of the most highly anticipated season openers in Tiger Stadium history. The brands are big, the lights are bright, the stakes are high and time is short.
The media has been locked out of practice for two weeks since school started. So, reports have been few and far between. There are three players we’re not talking much about who could be factors on Saturday night and moving forward for LSU.
SCOTT STARZYK, K
The former No. 2 prep kicker, who played for Arkansas last fall has had a wonderful camp. He has a strong leg and has been rock-solid making his kicks.
As a Razorback, Starzyk was 9-for-9 inside 40 yards and made all 47 extra points. He was 2-for-3 from 50-plus yards.
LSU would prefer not to settle for field goals, but has a solid option in Starzyk to turn to when it does.
The junior from St. Amant has made a little bit of a push at the end spot opposite Princewill Umanmielen. Do not be surprised if he starts the game and even if Jordan Ross gets the starting nod, Carpenter will absolutely play.
DYLAN CARPENTER, DE
Freshman Lamar Brown is a precocious talent at that spot, but he’s only been with the team for two months. Carpenter’s experience and play during pre-season practice has been impressive to the coaching staff.
TRE WILSON, WR
The Florida transfer has really emerged over the last couple of weeks. In an overcrowded wide receiver room, getting an edge on the competition has been tough.
It’s arguable that Wilson has the most talent among the group. He was the only five-star recruit, a distinction that was three years ago, but that ability is real. Remember, against Georgia last season, Wilson had 121 yards in receptions and a touchdown.
He may also field punts, though drops were a problem in the spring. He’ll certainly be involved in the passing game. Expect to see him used in a variety of ways where his change of direction, and straight-line speed, are both elite when he’s healthy and he enters the season at 100%.
