2017 LSU Tigers Football Roster: A Season Recap

Hey guys, let's dive into the 2017 LSU Tigers football roster. That season was a rollercoaster, and it's always fun to look back and remember the players who made it happen. We'll be breaking down the key players, the positions they played, and a bit about their impact on the team. This team, under Coach Ed Orgeron, had some serious talent, and many of these players went on to have successful careers. So, grab your purple and gold, and let's get started. The 2017 LSU Tigers were coming off a somewhat disappointing 2016 season and were looking to re-establish themselves as a powerhouse in the SEC. They had a mix of returning starters and promising newcomers, all eager to make their mark on college football. They were led by a coaching staff that was working hard to build a winning culture, and the players were responding with a strong work ethic and a desire to succeed. The team's overall goal was to compete for an SEC championship and make a run at the College Football Playoff, and the roster was built with that goal in mind. They knew it wouldn't be easy in the tough SEC West, but they were determined to give it their best shot. The journey of the 2017 season would have its ups and downs, but the players on this roster would be remembered for their contributions and their commitment to the team. The anticipation and excitement of the season were high, and the fans were eager to see what the Tigers could accomplish. The team knew they had a lot of work to do, but they were ready to embrace the challenge and represent LSU with pride. They were looking forward to the opportunity to showcase their skills and compete against the best teams in the country. The 2017 season was a chance to prove themselves, and the players were fully aware of the responsibility that came with wearing the purple and gold. They were prepared to make sacrifices, work together, and give everything they had to achieve their goals. The season was a testament to the hard work and dedication of the players, coaches, and staff who came together to represent LSU Football.

Quarterbacks and Offensive Leaders in 2017

Alright, let's start with the heart of the offense: the quarterbacks. In 2017, the primary signal-callers were Danny Etling and Myles Brennan. Danny Etling, the senior transfer from Purdue, brought experience and a steady hand to the position. Etling's leadership and ability to manage the game were crucial for the Tigers' offense. He was a solid passer and a smart decision-maker, helping the team stay competitive in every game. The other prominent quarterback was Myles Brennan, the young gunslinger who showed promise. Brennan, a true freshman, saw some action and gained valuable experience that would serve him well in the future. He showed flashes of brilliance and gave fans a glimpse of the team's potential. The quarterback position was a mix of experience and potential, and both Etling and Brennan played vital roles in the team's success. The coaching staff believed in both players, and their contributions were essential to the team's performance. The offensive line was responsible for protecting the quarterbacks and opening running lanes. Players like Will Clapp, Garrett Brumfield, and Ma'Shawn Rice anchored the offensive line, providing the protection needed for the passing game and paving the way for the running backs. These guys were the unsung heroes of the offense, making it possible for the skill players to shine. These linemen dedicated themselves to improving their skills and working together as a unit. Their effort and commitment were critical to the team's success, and they played a vital role in providing the quarterbacks with the time they needed to make plays. The offensive line worked tirelessly to create opportunities for the offense, ensuring that the team could move the ball effectively.

Running Backs. Now, let's talk about the guys who carried the load on the ground: the running backs. In 2017, the Tigers had a talented group of running backs who were essential to the team's offensive success. Derrius Guice was the star of the show. Guice was a force to be reckoned with, his powerful running style and knack for finding the end zone made him a nightmare for opposing defenses. He was a workhorse, consistently carrying the ball and making big plays. Guice's presence on the field energized the team and the fans. Guice was a highlight reel waiting to happen, with his impressive runs and ability to break tackles. He was a true difference-maker, and his contributions were invaluable to the Tigers' offense. Darrel Williams also made significant contributions. Williams was a versatile back with great hands and a knack for catching passes out of the backfield. He complemented Guice perfectly, giving the offense multiple dimensions. Williams' ability to contribute in the running and passing games made him a valuable asset. His versatility and reliability were crucial to the offense's effectiveness. He consistently made important plays and helped the team move the chains. The running backs, along with the offensive line, created a formidable running attack.

Wide Receivers and Tight Ends

Moving on to the pass catchers, the wide receivers and tight ends were key in the passing game. DJ Chark was the standout receiver. Chark brought size, speed, and great hands to the table, making him a reliable target for the quarterbacks. He was a big-play threat, capable of making spectacular catches and stretching the field. Chark's ability to create separation and make contested catches was a huge advantage for the offense. He was a leader on and off the field, inspiring his teammates with his work ethic and dedication. Russell Gage also played a significant role. Gage was a reliable receiver with good route-running skills. He consistently made catches and moved the chains. His consistency and ability to get open were invaluable to the offense. Gage provided a steady presence and was a trusted target for the quarterbacks. The tight end position was also a factor, with guys like Foster Moreau making an impact. Moreau was a strong blocker and a reliable receiver. He provided an important dimension to the offense, helping to open up the running game. Moreau's blocking skills were a key to the running game's success. He also showed his ability to catch passes and contribute in the passing game. The wide receivers and tight ends worked to create opportunities for the offense to move the ball. They played a pivotal role in creating a balanced and effective attack. They dedicated themselves to improving their skills and understanding the intricacies of the offense, making them a crucial part of the team's success.

Defensive Standouts of the 2017 Team

Let's head over to the defense! The 2017 LSU Tigers defense was loaded with talent, and many of these players would go on to have successful careers in the NFL. These players were crucial in stopping opponents and keeping the team in games. The defensive line was a major strength of the team. The defensive line was anchored by players like Christian LaCouture, Davon Godchaux, and Greedy Williams. They were a force up front, disrupting opposing offenses and making it difficult to run the ball. These guys consistently created pressure on the quarterback and made it tough for the opposing offense to gain yards. They were relentless in their pursuit of the ball carrier and created opportunities for the rest of the defense. Their impact extended beyond their statistics. The linebackers were led by Devin White and Corey Thompson. Devin White was a tackling machine, racking up tackles left and right. White had an incredible impact, both in terms of tackles and leadership. He was a force in the middle of the defense, stopping the run and making plays all over the field. He was a true difference-maker. Corey Thompson was also a key contributor, providing a solid presence at linebacker. His versatility and ability to make plays were invaluable to the defense. Thompson and White formed a formidable duo, making it difficult for the opposing offense to run the ball or pass effectively. They consistently disrupted plays and created turnovers, giving the offense more opportunities to score.

Defensive Backs. Finally, the defensive backs. The secondary was a mix of experience and young talent, with players like Greedy Williams, Donte Jackson, and John Battle. Greedy Williams was a lockdown corner, making it difficult for opposing receivers to get open. He was a ball hawk, intercepting passes and disrupting the passing game. Greedy was a rising star in the defensive backfield. Donte Jackson was another speedy corner who was a big-play threat. He was known for his speed and ability to cover a lot of ground. His speed made him an invaluable asset to the defense. John Battle, at safety, was a reliable presence in the secondary, helping to stop deep passes and make tackles. The defensive backs worked hard to communicate and coordinate their efforts. They were responsible for preventing big plays and creating opportunities for the defense to get off the field. Their performance was a key factor in the team's ability to win games. They worked tirelessly to refine their techniques and improve their understanding of the game. They focused on communication and preparation to excel. The defensive unit was instrumental in the team's success, making crucial plays that helped win games.

Special Teams Contributions

Let's not forget about special teams. Special teams are a critical aspect of college football. The 2017 LSU Tigers had a reliable kicking game. Cole Tracy, the kicker, was a consistent scorer. He was a crucial part of the team, making field goals and extra points. Tracy's reliability was a big asset to the team, helping them score points when the offense stalled. The punting duties were handled by Zach Von Rosenberg. Von Rosenberg's ability to pin opponents deep in their own territory was essential to field position. The special teams unit was well-coached and dedicated to improving. The special teams were often overlooked, but their impact on the game can be immense. Punting and field goals were essential components of the team's strategy. Their performance directly impacted the team's ability to win.

Coaching Staff and Season Highlights

The 2017 LSU Tigers were led by Head Coach Ed Orgeron, along with his coaching staff. Orgeron was focused on building a winning culture and developing the team. The coaching staff played a pivotal role in the team's success. They worked tirelessly to prepare the players, develop their skills, and create a positive team environment. They also put together effective game plans and made important decisions during games. The team's highlights included impressive wins and competitive performances. They were determined to reach the top. They faced tough competition and made a name for themselves. The team's grit and determination were on full display. Despite some setbacks, the Tigers consistently showed resilience and never gave up. They played with pride and passion, representing LSU and its fans. The players and the coaches were dedicated to their goals. Their hard work paid off, and their efforts will be remembered for years to come. The season was full of thrilling moments and memorable victories. The team left a lasting impression on the fans and the entire football community.

Conclusion: Looking Back at the 2017 Season

So, in conclusion, the 2017 LSU Tigers football roster was filled with talented players. They fought hard and left a lasting impression. From the quarterbacks to the running backs, receivers, and the rock-solid defense, the team had all the pieces to compete at a high level. They experienced ups and downs, but their determination and commitment never wavered. They were led by a dedicated coaching staff that pushed them to be the best. The 2017 season was a building block for future success. The players developed as individuals and as a team. The lessons they learned and the experiences they shared shaped their futures. The impact of the 2017 season continues to resonate with fans and alumni alike. The players left a legacy of hard work, perseverance, and dedication. They served as an inspiration to others. They are remembered as true representatives of the LSU Tigers. The 2017 season was a testament to the power of teamwork, dedication, and the pursuit of excellence.

Thanks for taking a trip down memory lane with me, guys. Geaux Tigers!