College Football Preview 2012-2013: 1. LSU Tigers

1. LSU Tigers Returning Starters: 11 Returning Star: DB Tyrann Mathieu Key Loss: WR Rueben Randle
Players to Watch:
QB Zach Mettenberger- Junior
TB Spencer Ware- Junior
DE Sam Montgomery- Junior
DB Tyrann Mathieu- Junior
S Eric Reid- Junior
No team losing half their team has this much talent coming back. Definitely the most dominant regular season team in the nation last year, it all fell apart in the championship against Alabama. They couldn't score for anything and their big defensive stars couldn't stop the Tide's offense. Now, the championship wouldn't slide out of the Tigers hands. Gone are Jordan Jefferson and Jarrett Lee but Les Miles is hoping he found a gem in Zach Mettenberger. As him name states the QB isn't flashy but the transfer is effective and will get the job done. Its the backfield that will be the offense. Back is All-SEC tailback Spencer Ware along with three other backs: Kenny Hilliard, Michael Ford and Alfred Blue. Ware will obviously get the most carries and will give opposing defensive coordinators headaches. Rueben Randle, the Tigers' top receiver last year was actually a big loss. He leaves behind a weak receiving core for Mettenberger to work with. The Tigers offensive line is a definite strength. Tackles Chris Faulk and Alex Hurst will keep tough SEC pass rushers in check while underrated center P.J. Lonergan snaps it. The defense lost 6 starters but back are some of the most important. The pass rush was amazing last year and looks to be just as good this year thanks to the return of end Sam Montgomery and end Barkevious Mingo. Other than the quarterback situation and wide reciever position the linebacker core is another issue. Junior Kevin Minter is the lone returner in it. The secondary is one of, if not the best in the SEC. Heisman finalist Tyrann Mathieu returns. He is one of the best game changers I have ever seen. Eric Reid's interception in the Tigers win over the Crimson Tide earlier in the season was one of the few times people noticed the safety. But, in fact, Reid had a fantastic year. His return helps significantly. Special teams may be one of the best in the nation thanks to punter Brad Wing's and kicker Drew Alleman's return.

Heisman Hopeful: Tyrann Mathieu
SEC Rank: 1st