It’s no secret that freshman cornerback Eli Ricks was a major factor in LSU’s defensive efforts on an otherwise dismal 2020 college football season.
The cornerback totaled 20 tackles last year, 11 solo, along with five passes defensed, four interceptions and two touchdowns.
He also stood out above the rest of college football in one category during his rookie campaign.
Ricks registered an 81.9 grade in single coverage according to Pro Football Focus — one that was unrivaled by any other player.
Ricks earned several postseason honors after LSU’s 5-5 finish that was capped off with an upset win over Florida and a home victory over Ole Miss, including being named to the SEC All-Freshman team.
Eli Ricks – 89.1 grade in single coverage
Highest in College Football đź”’ pic.twitter.com/H2H96xfBQs
— PFF College (@PFF_College) January 13, 2021
Ricks and LSU are set to open the 2021 college football season against UCLA on the road on Sept. 4.
It will be interesting to see how Ricks builds upon an already strong foundation as he progresses through his career with the Tigers.