This week I’m going to take a look at the final part of the defense. The secondary spot has always been questionable for LSU but they have been the backbone of one of the country’s best defenses. The cornerbacks and safeties have been critical in stopping the pass of the opponents.

Starting at one cornerback is junior Chevis Jackson. Jackson stands around 6 feet tall and close to 200 pounds. He has been a vital part of this secondary since seeing action his freshman year. He played in every game his freshman year and started last year. He racked up 47 tackles and broke up three passes. The great thing about Jackson is he was able to learn from Corey Webster and Travis Daniels, who are known Tigers and more importantly in the NFL now. If Chevis continues down the road he is on, he will join them on the professional ranks.

The man at free safety needs no introduction. Three-time All-American Laron Landry has made a name all on his own here at LSU. He was said to be one of the best freshman defensive backs in LSU history and is the jewel of Bo Pelini’s schemes. He has started in all but four games in his time here at LSU. Regardless of the national championship in 2003 and statistics, Laron’s value to this team extends pass numbers. The man usually running through the other team’s offensive line and wreaking havoc in Landry when the LSU defense blitzes. He is one of the hardest hitters on the defense and will bring those talents to the NFL next year. After returning for his senior season, Landry’s stock has risen and will see him go high in the first round. 

Next to Landry is senior Jesse Daniels. Daniels is not as heralded as Landry, but his contribution is almost equal. Daniels played in every game his freshman year and started at strong safety his sophomore and last year. Daniels is a perfect compliment to Landry providing composure to the secondary without lacking intensity. He will also be missed next year, and so will his 30-plus tackles he has given the Tigers the past three years. Hopefully Daniels will be drafted after playing an important role on this defense.

At the other cornerback is the “known unknown” Jonathan Zenon. The junior Zenon is from Beaux Bridge and was a high school teammate of Jesse Daniels. Zenon has crept up the depth chart the past two years. He is not as hyped as the other backs but is an emerging star. He returned interceptions for touchdowns two games this season and is tops among the SEC in interceptions. Zenon fits into LSU’s system so well because of his speed and ability to find the ball. He will flourish next year as the starting left cornerback.

The final back is junior Craig Steltz. Steltz is the brother of former LSU fullback Kevin Steltz, but Craig has definitely made a name for himself. The versatile safety can play both strong and free safety. He too will be a fixture next year in the LSU defense after sitting behind Jesse Daniels and Laron Landry. Steltz is a great tackler and is fearless on the field.

Contact Jonathan at sportseditor@b-now.com