Da Boot Sports
8/31/2022
By: Terrill J. Weil


BATON ROUGE, LA - As all of you know LSU's season opening contest against Florida State in the Caesars Superdome this Sunday afternoon is only a short five days away. Laissez Le Bon Temps Rouler!!!!

The Superdome field has been painted and is ready for college football action...

Below is some footage to give you a sneak peak on how the field will look on Sunday...

​ GEAUX TIGERS!!!

**John 14:6 - "I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me." (Find Jesus. God Bless)

Da Boot Sports
8/30/2022
LSU Sports Communications
By: Michael Bonnette


   BATON ROUGE – BJ Ojulari, Ali Gaye and Mike Jones Jr. have been selected as LSU’s team captains for the 2022 season, head coach Brian Kelly announced to the team on Tuesday after practice. 
 
The three players were selected in a vote of the team.
 
Kelly said Ojulari, Gaye and Jones Jr. will be joined each week as game captains with a player from the offensive side of the ball. The fourth game captain will be named on Thursdays during the season.  
 
Ojulari, who wears No. 18, is a preseason All-America selection and enters his second season as a starter on the defensive front for the Tigers. He’s LSU’s leading returner in tackles for loss (16.5) and sacks (11.0).
 
Gaye, who recently graduated from LSU, is also a returning starter and helps anchor one of the best defensive lines in college football. Gaye missed most of last season with an injury. He enters his final season with the Tigers having recorded 51 tackles, 12.0 tackles for loss and 4.5 sacks in 14 games at LSU.
 
Jones transferred to LSU from Clemson prior to the 2021 season and appeared in 13 games with five starts a year ago. One of LSU’s most productive linebackers, Jones graduated from Clemson in three years. He enters his fifth season of college football with 81 career tackles, 10.5 tackles for loss and 1.5 sacks. In his first year at LSU, Jones had 34 tackles and a sack.
 
LSU opens the 2022 season on Sunday when the Tigers travel to New Orleans to face Florida State (1-0) in the Allstate Louisiana Kickoff at Caesars Superdome. Kickoff for the contest is scheduled for 6:30 p.m. and will be televised on ABC.
 

Da Boot Sports
8/29/2022
By: Terrill J. Weil


   BATON ROUGE, LA - It’s finally game week! LSU head coach Brian Kelly had his weekly press conference on Monday afternoon to talk about and answer questions about the Tigers season opening contest against the Florida State Seminoles in the Caesars Superdome on Sept. 4.

   Video of the press conference is below..

**John 14:6 - "I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me." (Find Jesus. God Bless)

Da Boot Sport
8/27/2022
By: Terrill J. Weil


   BATON ROUGE, LA - After a year absence, Talking Tigers with Da Boot Sports returns for the 2022 LSU football season.

   Join us as former LSU quarterback Josh Booty will talk offense and former LSU linebacker Ron Sancho will discuss the Tigers’ defensive performance as we review the season opener against the Florida State Seminoles. Then we’ll preview LSU’s next contest, the home opener against Southern University.

   Our first prerecorded episode will be available on our website the morning of Wednesday, August 7.

​   Thank you for all of your support! Geaux Tigers!

​**John 14:6 - “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.” (Find Jesus. God Bless)

Da Boot Sports
8/26/2022
By: Terrill J. Weil


   BATON ROUGE, LA - The media was able to meet with selected LSU players after Friday afternoon's practice

   Mekhi Wingo, Sage Ryan, Greg Penn III and Jarrick Bernard Converse all answered questions for the media. These are four quality young men who are excited to get the season started. They all will play a huge part in LSU winning several games...

   Videos of the press conference are below....

**John 14:6 - "I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me." (Find Jesus. God Bless)

Da Boot Sports
8/24/2022
By: Terrill J. Weil


BATON ROUGE, LA - Wednesday's football practice was closed to the media, but LSU special teams coach Brian Polian held a press conference in the afternoon.

​ Polian's press conference video is below...

​**John 14:6 - "I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me." (Find Jesus. God Bless)

Da Boot Sports
8/23/2022
By: Terrill J. Weil


   BATON ROUGE, LA - Even though the media was allowed to view practice for a 30 minute period on Tuesday afternoon,  we were unable to attend as it was held outdoors in the rain.

   Brian Kelly held a press conference after practice and has still not come out and name an official starting quarterback. I still believe that he will play both Jaylen Daniels and Garrett Nussmeier. Expect Daniels to start in the season opener. 

   Have yourself a team roster handy on September 4th as I believe this coaching staff will play several different players early on, observing game performances in hope of finalizing starters at certain positions as players separate themselves on gameday.

   Below is video of Kelly's Tuesday press conference....
   

​​**John 14:6 - "I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me." (Find Jesus. God Bless)

Da Boot Sports
8/23/2022
Article courtesy of Gridiron Football
By: Jace LeJeune


   A second generation standout athlete from Destrehan High School is taking his talents to the Tulane Green Wave after quarterback Jai Eugene Jr. announced his decision to commit yesterday.
   “Tulane is a great program, and I felt like it was a great decision.”

   This dual threat quarterback will continue the bloodlines given to him by his dad Jai Eugene Sr., who was also a highly recruited player that played quarterback for the Wildcats and signed to play in the secondary for the LSU Tigers. Like his dad, Eugene Jr. will also play in the secondary at the collegiate level. Despite being great high school quarterbacks and Division I football recruits, there are actually some differences to each of their games.
   “My dad was more of a runner. I really take pride in being able to throw the ball at a high level.  It helps back guys up when I actually need to run.”

   It is one thing to hear stories and to watch film of their dad playing college or NFL football, but the Destrehan senior actually got to experience watching his dad play in Tiger Stadium when he was a little kid. Those memories of being around one of the best college football programs in the country and being around all of his dad’s teammates in the locker room already gave him a leg up in terms of actually knowing what it takes to be a part of a successful college football program starting at an early age.
   “Definitely! I remember a lot, being on campus with my dad. Saturdays were always fun. Being on the field, big lights, and maybe a hundred thousand people yelling. It was like a movie. I could never forget!”

   Experiencing what his dad went through after a great career at LSU, Eugene Jr. took his father’s advice and it has helped him apply to his own recruiting process. With other schools like Ole Miss, Mississippi State, Houston, Liberty, and Troy offering the three star prospect, listening to what the coaches and players had to say about each program really helped the second generation Destrehan star throughout this process.
   “Coach JJ and Coach Hampton did a great job recruiting me. They were very honest guys from the jump, and I feel like I could play for anyone who would be honest with me. I also watched them coach live, and you can’t really recruit while your coaching, and it stood out to me.”
   “Guys like Macon Clark and Noah Taliancich also played a major role in my recruitment. Those guys went to Destrehan, so I know they wouldn’t lead me in the wrong direction.”

   Having those guys as resources made it a very easy decision for him to commit before the start of the season. Now, since the deed has been done, the Wildcats signal caller can focus on the season.
   “Recruiting was one of those things you enjoy, but at the same time, you also have to get it out the way so you can focus,
and now, I’m just focusing on the season ahead with my teammates.”

   For Eugene Jr., it will not be hard to do so after the Wildcats came up just short of reaching the state championship game losing to the eventual Class 5A State Champion Zachary Broncos in the semifinals.
   “Losing in the semifinals definitely made me want to win even more. Our demeanor and mindset has been different ever since.”

   Being so close to accomplishing one of your goals and having to wait a year to try and accomplish that goal can eat at you, and it has driven the younger Eugene to have his best season yet.
   “There’s always room to grow learning, but my pocket presence is something I’ve been trying to work. Trusting the five
guys that block for me and delivering a good ball to my playmakers.”

   Right now, Jai Eugene Jr. is focused on one goal, which is to win a state championship, but he does have his goals that he wants to achieve once he arrives on campus, and that is to play as early as possible, but also to get his college degree. For the Green Wave fans, he just wants to tell them that they are getting a talented Louisiana player that is deciding to stay home and represent his state.
   “They are getting a guy who loves his home state and is ready to be on campus.”

   Not a lot of Louisiana players get the opportunity to play at one of the state’s five Division I FBS football programs so for him, he is very grateful for the opportunities that are given to him.
   “First, I would like to thank God for the opportunity and the position he’s put me in. I want to thank my parents, and bonus parents who look out for me, and anyone else who’s apart of my journey.”

   Although the first thing that comes to mind when they think of Jai Eugene Jr. is that he is the son of the former LSU National Championship defensive back Jai Eugene Sr., one thing is for certain, and that is Jai Eugene Jr. is making his own name in the football world.

Click the Link Below for Jai Eugene Jr.'s 2021 Highlights

​**John 14:6 - "I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me." (Find Jesus. God Bless)

Photos Below By: Terrill Weil

Da Boot Sports
8/22/2022
By: Terrill J. Weil


   BATON ROUGE, LA - Its been reported on Sunday by Brody Miller of The Athletic that senior running back John Emery Jr. will be suspended for the first two contest of the season.

   The suspension is due to lingering academic issues from last season's suspension which causes Emery to miss the entire 2021 football campaign. 

   Miller has also reported that Emery is attempting to appeal the decision, arguing that he has met all of his academic standards since Brian Kelly arrived at LSU in November, 2021. LSU hopes to know more about the situation sometime next week. 

   In other news, junior cornerback Raydarious Jones has been suspended for the entire 2022 season for academic issues. Jones was expected to contribute in the LSU secondary this season. 

​**John 14:6 - "I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me." (Find Jesus. God Bless)

Da Boot Sports
8/20/2022
By: Terrill J. Weil


   BATON ROUGE, LA - The Tigers practiced in Tiger Stadium on Saturday morning allowing the media to watch only a 30 minute period which consisted of mainly position drills. We were ushered out of Death Valley before the scrimmage began. 

   Coach Kelly mentioned in his press conference that he was happy with today's scrimmage. They were able to get in about 50 plays before it began to rain. 

   Not to much to report today. Jayden Daniels worked with the starters, Garrett Nussmeier took snaps with the second team and Walker Howard lead the third team of course. 
   Jayden Daniels has won this starting job and Kelly will officially announce it very soon. But expect Garrett Nussmeier to see playing time. Brian Kelly really likes Howard, but stated today that he needs more experience and that they are hoping to redshirt him. 

   At his press conference on Wednesday Brian Kelly said that they planned on moving some guys around on the offensive line. Well today was the first time since early in fall camp that we saw a different first team O-Line unit. The first team was with Will Campbell (LT) and Miles Frazier (LG) on the left side. They shifted Anthony Bradford (RG) inside from tackle to right guard with Cam Wire (RT) at right tackle. Garrett Dellinger is still the starting center.
   “I Like some of the things that Bradford does at guard,” Kelly said. “He’s big, physical on double teams. So that's still an area that we'll continue to look at.”
   Kelly also mentioned that Dellinger snapped the ball without any problems over the last two days. 

   Armoni Goodwin was seen, but didn't participate in drills. He looked a little gimpy as he's probably dealing with typical camp bumps and bruises. 
    I learned today that apparently John Emery Jr.'s status for the season opener is up in the air due to possible issues connected to last season's academic suspension. Kelly said today at his press conference that he isn't allowed to comment on player's academic situations.
   “You guys know the situation with John Emery,” Kelly said. “I really can't get into the specifics of that because of the Buckley Amendment. He's certainly a guy that's going to be part of what we do this year.”   
   “Everything that he's done for us has been outstanding in football. Anything else that arises would not be anything that I can comment on because of privacy rights. So I think you guys can put the rest together.”

   Chris Hilton Jr. returned to the practice field as he and Jack Bech looked to be recovering nicely from nagging injuries that have kept them from competing in practice. 

   The team went through their drills smoothly with speed and intensity. 

   The Tigers will be off the next two days. Sunday will be a day of rest and recovery, while Monday is the first day of classes. 

   On Tuesday afternoon the Tigers will scrimmage in Tiger Stadium. The media will be allowed to attend the
entire practice. 

   Below is video of Brian Kelly's Saturday Press Conference.

​**John 14:6 - "I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me." (Find Jesus. God Bless)

Da Boot Sports
8/19/2022
By: Terrill J. Weil


   BATON ROUGE, LA - Friday's practice was closed to the media, however defensive coordinator Matt House meet with the media after to answer questions. 

   This guy really gets me excited.. I think this LSU defense will be very nasty, especially if it can get solid play from
​the secondary.

   Press conference video is below....

**John 14:6 - "I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me." (Find Jesus. God Bless)

Da Boot Sports
8/17/2022
By: Terrill J. Weil


​   BATON ROUGE, LA - Former LSU and New York Giants great, Leonard Marshall was the recipient of great news today at the New York Giants practice facility. 

   Marshall along with six other former Giants' greats will be introduced into the New York Giants Ring of Honor this season. The other six joining Marshall will be, Rodney Hampton, Joe Morris, Ottis Anderson, Ronnie Barnes (part of the team's medical staff for 47 years), Jimmy Patton and Kyle Rote.

   "We are proud to add these deserving and legendary figures in Giants history to our Ring of Honor," Giants president and chief executive officer John Mara said. "Each of the players was among the very best at his position to wear a Giants uniform. All of them helped our franchise win championships and enjoy long-term success, as has Ronnie Barnes, who has been an invaluable and beloved member of our organization for decades."

   The ceremony will take place on Monday, Sept. 26, when the Giants host the Dallas Cowboys in MetLife Stadium on Monday Night Football.

   Leonard Marshall's bust will be added and displayed in MetLife Stadium on Sept. 26. along with all the other Ring
​of Honor honorees. 

   Marshall played at LSU from 1979 to 1982, accumulating 180 tackles and five sacks over his four year college career. He was a big part of one of the best defenses in LSU History in 1982. 

   A huge congratulations to my friend Mr. Leonard Marshall from myself and everyone here at Da Boot Sports!

Photos Below By: Giants.com

Da Boot Sports
8/17/2022
By: Terrill J. Weil


   BATON ROUGE, LA - Wednesday morning's practice was originally scheduled to be a scrimmage in Tiger Stadium. For one reason or another it was changed to basically a regular practice with a short scrimmage session at the Charles McClendon Practice Facility. 
   We were allowed to attend the entire practice instead of our regular 30 minute time slot. 

   All three quarterbacks took snaps today with Daniels taking most of the first team snaps. Both Daniels and Nussmeier performed well. Each lead the team to a touchdown. 
   Daniels seems to be improving on his decision making and accuracy as he made some nice throws. He also continues to show his mobility, scrambling a couple of times for positive yardage. 
   Nussmeier had a solid day throwing the football and looks very confident. 
   Brian Kelly still hasn't publicly name a starter at quarterback even though a source leaked earlier in the week that a decision was made this past weekend, choosing Jayden Daniels to be the season opener starter. 

   Jaray Jenkins had a very great day, including a touchdown pass from Garrett Nussmeier. Brian Kelly was asked about his play in his press conference after practice and said. "I wish he would take more of a leadership role. We need that leadership and it comes from consistency. That's what we're looking for, what we saw today. Consistency every single day. He's a great kid and we need that from him every single day."

   Brian Kelly was asked if a decision has been made on a starting offensive line. "No. There's still opportunities. Cam Wire is still in the picture. Dumervil is returning from an injured ankle and Turner is still competing. So I say those three guys are still vying for an opportunity. On Saturday we'll move that group around a bit."

   Garrett Dellinger struggled with some snaps today. The sophomore who has never played center before has done a solid job, but apparently has struggled snapping from time to time. Kelly said Dellinger will be fine and it will all work out. 

   Nolan Cain continues to steal the spotlight at the running back position. He does it all, makes the runs, catches the ball and blocks. Expect to see #21 make numerous big plays for the Tigers this season. 
   Armoni Goodwin took some first team snaps today. He's looking good as he combines speed and power to run like a fierce bowling ball.

   Brian Kelly remains impressed with the play of the cornerbacks, a position which was an offseason concern. Colby Richardson continues to catch everyone's eye with his impressive play. The secondary overall has shaped up nicely with surprising talent and depth. 
   Safety Major Burns has been impressive as of late in practice and Coach Kelly has noticed. "Major is a smart savvy player." Kelly said. "He brings smartness and a savvy to our defensive structure. He makes a lot of good calls. He communicates very well. He's a presence on that defense. He'll be involved quite a bit in what we do defensively because of that."

   At linebacker, true freshman Harold Perkins continues to shine. He's working with the second unit but expect to see this young man on the field often once the season starts. Perkins is always around the football and is going to be a special player for the purple and gold. 

   Defensive coordinator Matt House is scheduled to meet with the media on Friday after practice. We'll have video footage of that press conference for you.

   The next practice open to the media is scheduled for Saturday morning in Tiger Stadium. 

   This team is coming together. Brian Kelly will put a competitive product on the field for us this season folks.
Start getting excited Tiger fans! 17 days until kickoff....

   Below is video of Brian Kelly's Wednesday press conference.   

Photos Below By: Michael Bacigalupi

Da Boot Sports
8/16/2022
By: Terrill J. Weil


   BATON ROUGE, LA - Practice on day eleven was closed to the media. However, we were able to have a press conference with players after the Tuesday morning session. 

   Ali Gaye, Jayden Daniels and Garrett Nessmeier took turns answering questions this afternoon.

​   Videos of the interviews are below...

Da Boot Sports
8/15/2022
By: Terrill J. Weil


   BATON ROUGE, LA - Monday morning's football practice was open to the media and of course the big news was the absence of quarterback Myles Brennan. We would find out at the conclusion of practice that Brennan had decided to retire from football, leaving the team. 

   Jack Bech was back on a separate field working alone. He was running routes and catching balls, looking very close to 100%. Still no sign of Chris Hilton Jr.

   Looks like Brad Davis and Mike Denbrock may have decided on a starting five. Campbell (LT), Short (LG), Dellinger (C), Frazier (RG) and Bradford (RT) have been taking most of the first team snaps. If this remains the first unit in Wednesday's scrimmage, I'd have to believe this will be the unit to start on September 4th. 

   The defense showed a four man front on Monday, so watch for Matt House to use multiple formations once the season begins.  

   The Tigers will scrimmage in Tiger Stadium on Wednesday morning. Look for a lot of depth chart questions to be answered after Wednesday. Kelly has mentioned that they were hoping to have a solid depth chart in place by the end of this week.

   With Brennan gone, Daniels and Nussmeier will get many more snaps. It will be interesting to see how they are rotated during the next scrimmage.
   We expect Coach Kelly to announce the starting quarterback and depth chart at his Wednesday press conference. A source has confirmed that a decision was made this past weekend that Daniels will be named the starter with Nussmeier backing up.
​   I actually wouldn't be surprised if both see playing time during the season. Kelly has used a two quarterback system in the past at Notre Dame. We witnessed it first hand in the 2014 Music City Bowl when he played both Malik Zaire and Everett Goldson equally in a 31-28 win over LSU. 

   Practice is closed on Tuesday, but a select number of players will be made available to the media for questions after.