by Milton Manningham/ LSU Football Contributor
The college football landscape witnessed a shakeup as the LSU Tigers leaped several spots in the AP Top 25 Poll, released this past Sunday. After an electrifying 48-18 victory over Auburn on October 14, the Tigers now hold the No. 19 rank. However, LSU wasn’t the only team from Louisiana making headlines.
Tulane, after clinching a 31-21 win against Memphis on Friday night, has reentered the rankings at No. 23. With an eclectic mix of teams jostling for top spots, from Georgia and Michigan to Oregon and North Carolina, the rankings continue to offer a dynamic picture of the ongoing season.
As LSU fans bask in the glory of their ascent in the rankings, anticipation is already building for the team’s upcoming clash against Army in Tiger Stadium on October 21. But the good news for LSU fans doesn’t stop there. On the recruiting front, Sunday morning brought the announcement that 2025 wide receiver TaRon Francis has pledged his allegiance to Brian Kelly and the Tigers.
Not to be outdone, the team also secured the commitment of four-star EDGE CJ Jackson from Tucker, Georgia, for their 2024 recruiting class. This addition complements their already impressive offensive commits, spearheaded by elite tight end Trey’Dez Green. Green’s stock has been on the rise, with the athlete making a significant jump to No. 39 nationally in the latest On300 rankings. Many speculate that he could be inching closer to the coveted five-star status as the season progresses.
The defensive side of LSU’s recruiting also boasts some impressive names. The standout being safety Dashawn McBryde. The 6-foot-3 defensive maestro is currently the highest-ranked commit for the Tigers on that side of the ball, being the No. 74 overall prospect and the No. 5 safety. On3’s Scouting and Rankings team lauds him, describing McBryde as a “ballhawking safety” with a “college-ready physique”.
They highlight his stellar performance on the track and his ability to make nine interceptions during his junior year. With such talents making their way to LSU, the Tigers’ future looks bright, both on and off the field.