LSU football has always been a program that prides itself on formidable, physical defenses. But in 2024, the Tigers took a step back, finishing outside the top 10 in SEC defensive rankings.
LSU is turning its attention to the recruiting trail, zeroing in on a top defensive lineman from Indianapolis who could help get their defense back on track. With the right moves, the Tigers hope to reload, not rebuild, and this key target might just be the spark they need.
Can LSU’s Defensive Ranking Improve with Key DL Addition?
The 2024 season exposed some cracks in LSU’s defensive armor, especially up front. The Tigers struggled to find consistency at defensive tackle, leaning on a mix of transfers like Jay’Viar Suggs and Gio Paez, plus true freshmen like Dom McKinley.
These guys brought some juice, but the lack of experience showed. LSU had difficulty stopping the run and getting after the quarterback, which left them vulnerable against the SEC’s heavy hitters. Finishing outside the top 10 in the conference standings wasn’t just a stat; it was a wake-up call.
Any program that will win in the SEC has to dominate the line of scrimmage. It’s no secret that the conference’s best teams, think Alabama and Georgia, have built their success on nasty defensive fronts. A strong defensive line doesn’t just stop plays; it controls the game. They clog running lanes, collapse pockets, and let the rest of the defense feast.
LSU knows this all too well from their championship days, but last season proved they’re missing that punch up front. Landing a top-tier defensive lineman isn’t just a luxury; it’s necessary if the Tigers want to hang with the big dogs again.
Indianapolis (Ind.) Warren Central touted 2026 DL Jerimy JJ Finch has a keen eye on the SEC with one powerhouse program trending. A new prediction here: https://t.co/MwRv07t84B pic.twitter.com/8DZ4EUKavh
— Steve Wiltfong (@SWiltfong_) May 8, 2025
Meet JJ Finch: Indy’s Big-Time DL Prospect
So, who’s the guy LSU is chasing? His name’s JJ Finch, a beast from Warren Central High School in Indianapolis. Finch is the top-ranked prospect in Indiana and sits among the top 50 defensive linemen in the country.
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At 6’3” and 275 pounds, he’s got the size to hold his own, plus the quickness to make plays in the backfield. Coaches love his versatility; he can stuff the run one play and chase down a quarterback the next.
LSU’s chase for Finch isn’t just about fixing last year’s problems; it’s about setting the tone for what’s next. Head coach Brian Kelly put it best when he said, “We have a strong young nucleus in our program, but now it’s time to add to that.” Finch could be the cornerstone that helps LSU rebuild its defensive identity.
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