LSU coach Brian Kelly outlines several players who have stepped up during bowl prep

We’re officially in the heart of the 2023 bowl season, and for freshmen all around the country, that means extra opportunity to see meaningful snaps. Earlier today, LSU coach Brian Kelly spoke about some young players who have impressed through preparation for Wisconsin and the upcoming ReliaQuest Bowl.

Bowl games provide uniquely beneficial opportunities for freshmen

For many fans, bowl season doesn’t hold much weight. In the current era of the College Football Playoff, most bowl games have become more of exhibitions, with many players electing to opt out and look towards their future.

However, coach Brian Kelly and the Tigers haven’t exactly received the memo. As we rapidly approach the upcoming ReliaQuest Bowl vs. Wisconsin, LSU is giving preparation everything they have, notably, with minimal opt outs.

A major part of this is the fact that the Tigers are still chasing several goals. Whether it be records or a 10th win overall, just about everyone has a reason to be there.

Still, those things don’t appear to be the most important for LSU coach Brian Kelly.

“Getting this bowl game as the additional game is probably the most sensible thing that’s ever occurred in my time,” the Tiger head coach said. “Where these kids can play in this game after they’ve used their four games. You get a chance for these kids to stay motivated and practice and play in this game, and Jaxon (Howard) is one of those guys that gets this opportunity.”

One freshman in particular who has stuck out so far through bowl prep is that of former four-star edge rusher Jaxon Howard. Notably, the Minnesota native is just one of several young players finally receiving some opportunity to make an impact, and it could prove to be significantly beneficial heading into the future.

LSU coach Brian Kelly is particularly excited for the additional defensive practices

Talent is important for obvious reasons in the sport of football. However, experience and football IQ might be even moreso, particularly at the college level.

For many freshmen, bowl season is the perfect time to start gaining those skills. Whether it be due to opt outs or just extra practice, more time on the field with your team often ends up being the cause of a major year-two jump.

LSU coach Brian Kelly continued discussing some young players who have impressed thus far, placing particular emphasis on the defensive side of the ball heading into the upcoming ReliaQuest Bowl vs. Wisconsin.

“A guy like Kylin Jackson gets an opportunity to play in a game like this, which is really big for him,” he continued discussing about his freshmen on Friday. “A couple of the defensive guys that needed more reps, I think the freshman corners. All of those guys get an opportunity.”

Kylin Jackson, a former four-star safety out of Louisiana is just one of a six-man defensive back class of 2023 to join the Tigers this past season. While several positions could use a boost at depth, getting some cornerbacks and safeties good to go for 2024 would be a luxury the Tigers have been desperately waiting for since coach Kelly made his way to Baton Rouge in 2022.

“This is our 13th practice, so it’s spring ball for all of these young guys that get more opportunities to go out and develop more. And then they get to finish it up with a game against a Big Ten opponent. I think a lot of our young players, especially on the defensive side of the ball get a great opportunity with this opportunity.”

LSU will face off against Wisconsin in the 2024 ReliaQuest Bowl in what will be the fifth all-time meeting between the two schools. The matchup will take place on New Year’s Day in Tampa, FL, and will be broadcast live at 11:00 a.m. CST on ESPN2.

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