With two games remaining in the regular season, the anticipation is building for the LSU Tigers as they prepare to face off against Vanderbilt. The potential return of junior Garrett Dellinger could be a game-changer for the Tigers’ offensive line, which has faced challenges in his absence. Dellinger has been sidelined for several weeks due to injury, but the latest updates suggest he may be ready to make his comeback this week.
Injury Status Update
The excitement surrounding Dellinger’s possible return is palpable. Head coach Brian Kelly provided a glimpse into Dellinger’s progress during the SEC coaches teleconference on Wednesday. “He practiced a little bit yesterday,” Kelly shared. “We’re taking it day by day. Look, I think it’s important when you’re coming back from this tightrope surgery that there’s kind of stages. You don’t throw him in for everything. Yesterday he was part of our pass protections, and he felt comfortable there. Today we’re going to get him involved in the run game. So we’re making progress.”
Dellinger was a pivotal player for the Tigers before his injury. In fact, LSU had given up only two sacks all season until he went down. Since then, the team has struggled, allowing a staggering seven sacks in a single game against Florida. This stark contrast highlights just how crucial Dellinger is to the offensive line’s performance.
Full LSU-Vanderbilt Wednesday Injury Report
As the Tigers gear up for the matchup, the injury report sheds light on the current status of the roster. Here’s a breakdown of the injuries affecting both teams:
LSU:
– S Jordan Allen – Out
– LB Harold Perkins Jr. – Out
– CB JK Johnson – Out
– WR Kyle Parker – Out
– RB John Emery Jr. – Out
– DE Princeton Malbrue – Out
– DT Jacobian Guillory – Out
– OL Miles Frazier – Questionable
– OL Garrett Dellinger – Questionable
– WR CJ Daniels – Probable
– RB Caden Durham – Probable
Vanderbilt:
– WR Dariyan Wiley – Out
– DL Zaylin Wood – Out
– CB Mark Davis – Out
– EDGE Boubacar Diakite – Out
– OL Grayson Morgan – Out
– DL Bradley Mann – Out
Dellinger’s Replacement Struggles
In Dellinger’s absence, redshirt freshman Paul Mubenga has taken on the role of the primary replacement. However, it hasn’t been an easy transition. The offensive line has faced significant pressure, and the struggles have been evident. The team’s ability to protect the quarterback and establish a solid run game has been compromised, leading to a decline in overall offensive performance.
As the Tigers prepare for their upcoming game, the urgency to solidify the offensive line is more critical than ever. If Dellinger can return to form, it could provide a much-needed boost to the team’s morale and effectiveness on the field.
Optimism for Dellinger’s Return
Kelly expressed cautious optimism regarding Dellinger’s status, stating, “I would say that I’m optimistic, but each day we’ve got to work on building that confidence where he feels he can go out and be an asset for us.” The coaching staff is taking a measured approach, ensuring that Dellinger is fully prepared before he steps back into the game.
Prior to Wednesday’s updates, Kelly had indicated that a decision on Dellinger’s playing status would likely be made midweek, following further assessment of his practice performance. “We’re getting closer to where we think there’s a chance that he could play,” Kelly noted, emphasizing the importance of Dellinger’s readiness for the game.
What It Means for LSU
The return of Garrett Dellinger could be monumental for LSU as they head into the final stretch of the season. With the team facing off against Vanderbilt, every player’s contribution will be vital. Dellinger’s experience and skill set could help stabilize the offensive line, allowing the Tigers to execute their game plan effectively.
As fans eagerly await the announcement of Dellinger’s status, the atmosphere surrounding the team is charged with anticipation. Will he be the spark that reignites LSU’s offensive prowess? Only time will tell, but one thing is for sure: the Tigers are ready to fight for victory, and having Dellinger back in the lineup could make all the difference. The countdown to game day is on, and the excitement is palpable!
