Kelly says Dellinger returned to practice Tuesday

Garrett Dellinger has watched from the sidelines as LSU’s offense has struggled to produce points the last three games.

LSU’s starter at right guard for better nearly three seasons sprained his ankle in the loss at Texas A&M. Tightrope surgery was performed days later, and the recovery process has gone well. He may be on pace to return Saturday against Vanderbilt.

“He practiced a little bit (Tuesday),” LSU Head Coach Brian Kelly said. “We’re taking it day by day. I think it’s important, when you’re coming back from this tightrope surgery, that there’s stages. You don’t throw them in for everything. Yesterday he was part of our pass protections, and he felt comfortable there. Today we’re going to get him involved in the run game.”

Redshirt freshman Paul Mubenga has play in Dellinger’s absence. He has had his ups and downs. Last week quarterback Garrett Nussmeier was sacked a season-high seven times. Florida really attacked the interior of LSU’s offensive front that was featuring three redshirt freshmen during parts of the first half.

Senior Miles Frazier missed some time but returned to the game. Kelly would like to pair his senior guards back together as Vanderbilt comes to Baton Rouge. He’ll have to wait until later in the week to finalize that decision.

“We’re making progress,” Kelly said. “So, I would say that I’m optimistic. But each day we’ve got to work on building that confidence where (Dellinger) feels he can go out and be an asset for us.”