LSU’s secondary features a lot of new faces after another big-time transfer portal haul. But perhaps one of the most intriguing players in the group is one that LSU recruited and developed themselves.
After redshirting his first season in 2021, [autotag]Sage Ryan[/autotag] saw a lot of action off the bench in 2022. He played in all 14 games, but he only made one start.
Ryan is looking to change that this time around, and he’s vying for a starting spot at nickel in 2023. After seeing action as a utility weapon in high school, Ryan said focusing on one position has helped him grow.
“It was hard my first two years to adapt because I only played offense in high school and was a top athlete,” Ryan told the media, per On3. “When I finally focused on one position on the defensive side, it was a different challenge for me. When I broke down the playbook it really helped me understand everything. Now, things are moving a lot slower for me on the field.
“I’d say my man coverage and my ball skills have been the main focus – just making a play with the ball in the air. It was mostly my one-on-one coverage. I’ve got zone coverage down, with my eye progressions, but it’s just doing your job.”
Ryan will certainly face some competition at nickel. The Tigers added a potential starter there in Syracuse transfer [autotag]Duce Chestnut[/autotag], and true freshman [autotag]Javien Toviano[/autotag] has repped at safety and nickel in what has reportedly been an impressive camp.
Still, Ryan has the benefit of experience and knowing the defensive system, which should help him secure his biggest role yet on defense.
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