LSU Tigers vs. Arkansas Razorbacks: Reviewing the Quarterback Situation

The LSU Tigers are undefeated for the first time since 1958, and they’ve done it with a dual-quarterback situation.

Minus an interception and holding on to the ball for too long a few times, Jordan Jefferson turned in his best performance of the year yesterday against the Arkansas Razorbacks. Jefferson threw 29 times and completed 18 of them for over 200 yards and passing for a touchdown.

I don’t think there’s ever been anyone more critical of the quarterback situation than me, and I have to say that I’m impressed. Not only did Jefferson post great stats running and throwing the ball, but he also rushed for over 50 yards and made some athletic plays throwing the football.

Jefferson showcased his amazing arm strength with some strong throws to wide receiver Rueben Randle, and he showed that he can evade tacklers in the backfield. I have to give it to Jefferson for playing as well as he did, and I think he can carry this LSU team to another national championship.

But let’s not forget about how LSU got here, and how Jefferson gained the starting position. It was Jarrett Lee who threw two interceptions in the Alabama game, and then it was JJ and no looking back.

But when people look back on an amazing 2011 season filled with one-sided beat-downs over highly ranked opponents, the fans and the media should realize that Lee was a vital part of this season. Lee played tremendous football through eight football games and had only one interception all year going into the Alabama game.

He had 13 touchdowns with only one interception, and yes, we’re talking about the same guy that became synonymous for the phrase "pick six." I have been amazed by both quarterbacks' ability to not only take care of the ball but also make plays on the football field.

So, who do we praise over this turnaround? Should we praise the head coach for getting both quarterbacks mentally ready and tough to swap roles over the course of this season? I think Les Miles does deserve a lot of praise, but the real man to thank for such a quick turnaround is quarterbacks coach Steve Kragthorpe.

Kragthorpe has taken both of these quarterbacks under his wing and polished their skills. He has sharpened their minds and given them confidence. He made what was once a weak link on the team somewhat of a strong suit.

Now, don’t go thinking that these Tigers are going to drop back and throw over 30 times a game, but if they wanted to, I believe they could. Time and time again in his career, Kragthorpe has taken quarterbacks under his wing and turned them into great football players.

Before the season, when he was still offensive coordinator and Jefferson was still the starter, Kragthorpe said in a press conference put the blame on him if Jefferson fails, but to give Jefferson all the praise if he doesn’t.

Well, neither Jefferson nor Lee has failed, and I’m giving all the credit to Kragthorpe.