LSU football has received encouraging news ahead of its crucial SEC opener. Starting center Braelin Moore appears poised to return for Saturday night’s clash against Florida, marking a significant recovery from the ankle injury that sidelined him early in the Louisiana Tech game. The Virginia Tech transfer’s rapid progress has transformed a potential long-term absence into a probable return two weeks later.
Brian Kelly Expresses Optimism About Braelin Moore’s Status
Fresh reports from On3 indicate that Moore is trending toward being a game-time decision against Florida this weekend. Sources near the program reveal that Moore has progressed well throughout the week and remains a crucial component of the LSU offensive line for the matchup against the Gators.
This represents major progress since Sunday, when Moore was considered questionable at best for the Florida game. The positive developments give Brian Kelly and his coaching staff confidence heading into one of the toughest tests of the 2024-25 season.
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“I think we have him listed as probable,” Kelly said during Wednesday’s SEC teleconference. “If not, I’ll double check, maybe he’s questionable. But he did practice yesterday and we expect him to practice today.”
Kelly also emphasized that the nature of Moore’s injury wasn’t as severe as initially feared. “We did not get the sense he got a high ankle sprain or that he would need a tight rope procedure, and he was going to be out for four weeks,” the LSU coach explained.
Why Does Moore’s Availability Matter So Much Against Florida?
Moore’s potential return couldn’t come at a more critical time. The Tigers face a Florida defense that will capitalize on offensive line weaknesses after LSU’s struggles following Moore’s injury against Louisiana Tech. Without their starting center, the Tigers managed just 3.8 yards per carry and looked out of rhythm throughout much of that contest.
The timing also works perfectly for LSU’s schedule structure. The Tigers face Southeastern Louisiana next week, which would give Moore additional recovery time against a less formidable opponent before the bulk of SEC conference play begins. This approach would ensure he reaches full strength for the more challenging portion of LSU’s schedule.
Moore sprained his left ankle on the very first play from scrimmage against Louisiana Tech last Saturday. The injury’s immediate impact was visible as LSU’s offensive line struggled without its anchor, forcing the team to rely on backup DJ Chester for the remainder of the game.
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If Moore remains unavailable for Saturday’s game, LSU has veteran depth ready. Chester, who started all 13 games at center last season and earned Freshman All-SEC honors, would again fill the role as the primary replacement.
During his weekly media sessions, Kelly acknowledged the team’s preparation for both scenarios. “You have to have plans for having him and not having him,” he stated.
The upgrade in Moore’s status significantly boosts an LSU team preparing to face Florida’s formidable defensive front. With conference play officially beginning, having their starting center healthy and ready could prove crucial in what promises to be a pivotal early-season SEC battle at Tiger Stadium.
