LSU Spring Game 2012: Talented Players Who Tigers Hope Blossom

Making it to the national championship game is never good enough for a team like LSU. That's why plenty of eyes will be on the Tigers during their annual spring game this Saturday.

Who will step up to fill the void at quarterback? Will some of the Tigers' underperforming talents finally realize their potential? Will the underclassmen make an impact?

These questions, and more, are likely buzzing in the heads of LSU fans everywhere.

Here's a look at talented players who the Tigers hope blossom in the 2012-'13 season.

3. La'el Collins, OG

The Tigers may have five returning offensive linemen, and La'el Collins may only be a sophomore, but there's buzz that head coach Les Miles might try to work in the 6'5", 320-pounder earlier than expected.

Collins will compete with senior Josh Dworaczyk, who started 26 straight games as a sophomore and junior before suffering a knee injury during fall camp last season.

Collins, the No. 8-overall recruit in the 2011 class according to ESPNU, has the talent and size, athleticism and balance to start this season for the Tigers. Some feel as if he could have started his freshman season. He's certainly a guy to watch for as a new quarterback moves in under center.

2. Russell Shepard, WR

With Rueben Randle off to the NFL, it sure would be nice for Russell Shepard to finally realize his potential.

Deemed the No. 3-overall recruit in 2009, Shepard is a super athlete who hasn't appeared to find a true position yet. He rushed the ball seven times, returned two kickoffs and caught a mere 14 balls for 190 yards and four touchdowns for the Tigers last season.

If Shepard can become more of a receiving threat, excel in some rushing packages or become more of a threat in the returning department, the Tigers would be mighty happy.

1. Zach Mettenberger, QB

LSU may have Stephen Rivers and Jerrard Randall, but let's be honest, this is Zach Mettenberger's team now. He has a cannon of an arm, but will the leadership and poise follow?

The Tigers didn't exactly have a star pocket passer last season, but still made it to the national championship game. Mettenberger, while a big player (6'5", 222 pounds), isn't the same athlete as Jordan Jefferson and he'll need to do damage with his arm.

While LSU will once again rely heavily on its defense this season, the Tigers are going to need Mettenberger to step up despite only throwing 11 passes in his LSU career.

Follow me on Twitter. We can talk about the LSU Tigers together.