Brian Kelly says LSU LB Whit Weeks is too good to keep off the field

Oct 7, 2023; Columbia, Missouri, USA; Missouri Tigers running back Cody Schrader (7) runs the ball as LSU Tigers linebacker Whit Weeks (40) makes the tackle during the second half at Faurot Field at Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Denny Medley-USA TODAY Sports

Two games into 2024, LSU football’s head coach is impressed with linebacker Whit Weeks.

Speaking to the media on Wednesday, Brian Kelly said Weeks “can’t be in a platoon situation.”

He added that Weeks’ play is forcing LSU to make some tough decisions regarding the linebacker position. Keeping Weeks out there every snap means altering the rotation and that playing time has to come from somewhere.

Weeks has been LSU’s most impactful defender so far. According to PFF, among SEC LBs with 60+ snaps, Weeks is the sixth-best-graded backer in the conference.

Weeks already has nine stops and is yet to miss a tackle. That stop rate is one of the best in the conference and Weeks’ run stops come at an average of one yard.

When Weeks is involved, good things happen for LSU’s defense. DC Blake Baker has a knack for developing impact players at inside linebacker and Weeks looks like the next breakout.

Brian Kelly on Whit Weeks: “He can’t be in a platoon situation.”

— Wilson Alexander (@whalexander_) September 11, 2024

According to On3, Weeks was a four-star and top 150 overall recruit in 2023. He showed flashes as a true freshman but wasn’t consistent enough to see the field in a full-time role.

LSU is counting on younger classmen like Weeks to be the cause for a defensive turnaround and once LSU figures out how to optimize the lineup, the defense should take another step.

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This article originally appeared on LSU Wire: Brian Kelly says…


Source link : https://sports.yahoo.com/brian-kelly-says-lsu-lb-161642269.html

Author : LSU Tigers Wire

Publish date : 2024-09-12 16:16:42

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