There’s plenty of new coming to the LSU football program in 2024 – many of which are projected to be good, but could have some growing pains. Among said changes include defensive coordinator Blake Baker, who, according to cornerback Javien Toviano, is bringing a new energy to the Tiger defense.
Defensive coordinator Blake Baker bringing a new culture to the LSU football defense
There was just something off about the LSU football defense under defensive coordinator Matt House in 2023. The schemes were never quite right and the group never fully seemed connected as a whole.
In turn, it came as little to no surprise when coach Brian Kelly elected for a change of pace, bringing in former Tiger linebacker coach Blake Baker to be the new head man on defense.
Understandably, there’s plenty of excitement surrounding the hire, but it’s important to remember that it’s not easy implementing a new scheme and culture into a team. Even so, if you ask some of the young and veteran guys on the roster, things are already beginning to transition well.
When asked about his second defensive coordinator in as many years with the program, projected starting cornerback Javien Toviano immediately spoke about the energy and support that came with the hire.
“A lot of energy. When I think about coach Baker, he’s always happy smiling,” the sophomore said about his experiences through spring practice. “The main thing that stuck out with him is when we make a play, everybody celebrates – everybody goes up the sideline. It just shows that you’re proud of your teammates and – accountability as well – just being able to celebrate with them.”
Cheering for your teammates might sound like a simple thing on the surface, but there’s something special about knowing your group of guys believe in you and want to see you succeed. Additionally, the more fun the LSU defense is having in 2024, the more loose and free they’re likely to play, which could end up leading to more big plays in the near future.
Secondary coach Corey Raymond making an immediate impact on the defensive backfield
Defensive coordinator Blake Baker wasn’t the only new hire for the defense heading into 2024. Among the big names to know include defensive line coach Bo Davis, edge rushers coach Kevin Peoples, safeties coach Jake Olsen and secondary coach Corey Raymond.
The Corey Raymond pickup stuck out in particular for many people around Baton Rouge, as the veteran coach is no stranger to the LSU football program. Having spent time with the Tigers from 2006 to 2008 and 2012-2021, he spent time helping to develop some of the best defensive backs to ever grace Tiger Stadium.
Among the top players he played a role in developing include seven First Team All-Americans such as safety Eric Reid, safety Jamal Adams, cornerback Tre’Davious White and cornerback Derek Stingley Jr.
Now, with his return to Baton Rouge after two seasons away, it’s on to the next generation of great LSU defensive backs, and Javien Toviano is well aware of the impact it could have on his ability to improve over these next few years.
“I think it’s great for us, being able to just learn from the guy who’s produced so many great, talented DBs. So, I think it’s tremendous for us. I’ve learned a lot. Just really had to hone in on techniques and different types of coverages that you play and different types of styles and stuff. I’m learning a lot from him.”
Among the differences we’re already starting to see through early spring practices include some more physicality at the line of scrimmage. The purple and gold spent a bulk of their time in 2023 with relaxed coverage, often allowing for easy short passes all season long.
“LSU’s known to play man-to-man. We all know that,” Toviano continued while speaking with the media on Monday. “We all see those great DBs that played here and get up there and get in those guys’ faces, so I think that is our main philosophy. We’re just gonna be challenging up front at the line and being able to defend everybody’s grass.”
How much of a difference the new hires truly make in the long run is yet to be seen. Still, if early reviews from the players themselves are any indication, things are moving in a very positive direction. Now, we’ll just have to see it on the football field in 2024.
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