Throughout the offseason, coach Brian Kelly has discussed the run-game as being a major part of what the Tiger offense will be based around. If this does end up being the case, they’ll likely need multiple ballcarriers to step up in 2024, and already, it seems as though LSU running back Kaleb Jackson is up to the task.
LSU running back Kaleb Jackson is ready for a jump in production with the purple and gold
LSU running back Kaleb Jackson nearly broke the internet as a freshman when he simply ran through Mississippi State safety Isaac Smith en route to a 13-yard gain late in the third quarter.
As it would turn out, this was only a glimpse at what was to come, as he would carry that momentum throughout the 2023 campaign, ending the year with 218 total yards on offense to go along with four touchdowns in his first season of college football.
Now, after a stellar performance during the 2024 LSU spring game, the Baton Rouge, LA, product might be preparing himself for a major jump in year two.
On the day the 6-foot, 225-pound running back found his way into the endzone to go along with multiple break away runs, showing off his rare combination of speed, elusiveness and power.
Even better for the rising sophomore, Jackson managed to impress the Tiger coaching staff quite a bit, which very well could lead to an increase in opportunities going forward.
Following the final practice of spring football, LSU coach Brian Kelly shared some thoughts on the talented running back and what he could bring to the offense in 2024.
“What I liked about Kaleb was patience today. He was a lot more patient on his running fits. He was a lot more north and south – he had been a guy that had a tendency to bounce out and bleed out to the sideline instead of just hitting the thing north and south, and that was really encouraging. With his physicality and speed, if he hits these things north and south – as you saw on the goal line piece of our scrimmage – he can crease a defense.”
It’s important to note that Jackson will likely have his hands full in terms of earning extra snaps during the 2024 season. The main competition to watch is Josh Williams, who is entering his sixth season with the program, as well as rising freshman Caden Durham.
Even so, the Tigers haven’t been shy about their desire to run the ball plenty in 2024. If they follow through, expect all three running backs to get a hefty dose of carries, with Jackson potentially seeing a big-time jump in production during his second year with the purple and gold.
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