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There was a lot of chatter about Ja’Marr Chase after the preseason. Given how his rookie season has gone through six games, he has shown that preseason means nothing.
According to this tweet from Pro Football Focus, Ja’Marr Chase is actually ahead of his teammate from the 2019 national championship team. During that historic season, the duo combined for 3,320 yards and 38 touchdowns.
Through six games of their rookie seasons, Chase is slightly ahead. Jefferson was drafted by the Minnesota Vikings in the 2020 NFL draft and finished with 1,400 yards. Chase was reunited with quarterback Joe Burrow and they have continued their chemistry from the title run.
There must be something in the water in Baton Rouge đź‘€
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— PFF (@PFF) October 18, 2021
Looking at the numbers, if Chase stays on this level of play, could he pass what Jefferson did in 2020 overall? Chase would have the advantage with an extra game being played in 2021 but we projected his numbers on a 16 game schedule to keep it on par with Jefferson’s rookie campaign. Chase would exceed his production with fewer catches.
| Player | Rec | Yards | YPR | TDs |
| Jefferson | 28 | 537 | 19.2 | 3 |
| Chase | 27 | 553 | 20.5 | 5 |
| Jefferson final numbers | 88 | 1,400 | 15.9 | 7 |
| Chase projected numbers | 72 | 1,432 | 20.5 | 13 |
Regardless if Chase is able to pass his counterpart, it goes to show you that LSU is one of the best at producing top young receivers in the NFL. Kayshon Boutte could be the next in line when he leaves for the NFL in a season or two.