LSU Football Spring Game: Who Will Fill Vacancy at Tackle?

LSU has the luxury of returning four of their five offensive linemen from 2010, only losing Joseph Barksdale at tackle.

Going into this weekend’s spring game, which will be televised on ESPN at 3 p.m. on April 9, the Tigers will be looking to find his replacement.

Redshirt freshman Chris Faulk has been working with the first team offense, and while head coach Les Miles is comfortable with Faulk starting, he is not ready to award the starting role just yet.

Faulk will start on Saturday, but Miles is still evaluating a few other options mainly 2010 signee Evan Washington.

Also in the mix is senior Greg Shaw, but at only 295 lbs., he is a long shot to beat out the much larger Faulk and Washington.

Incoming freshman La’el Collins, the No. 2 offensive tackle in the nation from the 2011 class will be joining the team and the tackle competition in August.

Barksdale’s replacement at tackle will be critical as the Tigers attempt to revitalize their passing game and continue the success that they have had running the ball.

Jordan Jefferson, despite being a great athlete and runner, has shown that he can have success passing the ball when given time.

Zach Mettenberger, who is challenging Jefferson for the starting quarterback role, is a pure pocket passer that can pick apart opposing defenses with time.

Protecting the pocket from the outside rush will be a crucial part of LSU’s success in 2011 so whomever Miles chooses to fill the open tackle spot will need to play like his veteran counterparts along the Tiger offensive line from day one.