LSU faces a massive challenge replacing four NFL-bound offensive linemen, including a No. 4 overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft. While the center and tackle positions show promise, ongoing guard competition has emerged as the Tigers’ most critical concern heading into the 2025 season.
Can LSU’s Unsettled Guard Competition Become the Tigers’ Season-Defining Weakness?
In the latest “After Further Review: LSU” video, analyst Matt Moscona honestly assessed the Tigers’ offensive line situation. He was straightforward about the problem and did not sugarcoat the magnitude of the challenge facing LSU.
“You had to do a blind survey here, a blind resume,” Moscona explained. “And if I told you, hey, there’s a team that’s losing four starters on their offensive line. All four of them just went to the NFL Draft; one of them was taken fourth overall.
“You’re probably going to assume that line is not going to be as good the next year with all that you lost. That’s a right assumption.”
He noted the staggering experience gap, emphasizing that “you’re replacing four NFL players who combined for 170 career games played. I am not dismissing those questions or concerns.”
Moscona identified the guard positions as LSU’s biggest worry. He said the competition has become increasingly volatile, with daily changes to the depth chart.
“The question is the guards. And I even told you this yesterday. DJ Chester, who’s been your first-team left guard, Coen Echols replaced him yesterday in the team periods as first-team left guard,” he reported.
Moscona noted this uncertainty creates a ripple effect throughout the offensive line.
“But I think that’s a consider that’s definitely a concern is how you play at guard. No doubt,” he added.
Moscona emphasized he’s not downplaying legitimate concerns about the unit’s readiness.
“Now, I am not dismissing the concern about the offensive line. It is justified,” he stated. He reinforced this point later, saying, “Again, I’m not sitting here dismissing the questions about the offensive line. It is everyone’s biggest question, and rightfully so.”
He noted last year’s group excelled in pass protection despite run-game struggles.
“This group, a year ago, was outstanding at pass protection. They were allowed the 10th fewest sacks in the country… They really struggled to run the ball because they didn’t have the explosives,” Moscona observed.
Despite the challenges, Moscona sees potential solutions through creative coaching.
“And while they try to figure that out and learn to play together, I think scheme and personnel are things that could overcome it. At least that’s the hope as they begin this season,” he concluded.
The guard competition remains LSU’s most critical storyline as fall camp continues.
