Thanks to a flurry of opt-outs and transfer portal losses, young players were forced into action for LSU football in its bowl win over Baylor. With the 2024 regular season in the rearview mirror, the bowl game offered a glimpse at the future.
Perhaps the player drawing the most attention was true freshman tight end Trey’Dez Green.
Green was a five-star recruit in the class of 2024. At 6’7, the Louisiana native jumps off the screen. He’s the prototypical red zone threat and pairs elite athleticism with elite size.
With Mason Taylor opting out and Ka’Morreun Pimpton entering the transfer portal, Tuesday was a chance for Green to make a mark. He delivered.
At first glance, Green’s initial stat line won’t blow you away, but Green was LSU QB Garrett Nussmeier’s top target in critical moments.
On the opening drive, Nussmeier found Green to keep the drive alive on fourth down. The drive was capped by Nussmeier connecting with Green for a score on fourth down to put LSU up 7-0.
Later in the game, play action set up Green to catch his second score of the day. Green finished with six catches for 53 yards and two touchdowns.
After the game, head coach Brian Kelly shared his praise.
“How do you put it in perspective that he made you forget about Mason Taylor, who is an incredible player because of the plays he made on fourth and third down,” Kelly said.
Kelly highlighted the importance of having a target who can show up in late-down situations. The Tigers didn’t know what to expect without Taylor, but Green allowed LSU to pick up where it left off with Taylor.
Green showed all the signs of an emerging star. The talent is evident, and he looks like he belongs on the field. With another offseason of work, Green has a chance to be one of the top pass catchers in the SEC.