Now that the 2016 season is over for the LSU Tigers football team, it is time to look ahead and see what’s next. Losing Leonard Fournette to the NFL was a big stab in the chest for the Tigers. But Derrius Guice has something to prove, and he’s more than ready for his time in the spotlight. Though he started a few games in 2016 with Fournette injured, he hasn’t had the satisfaction of starting every single game. Now that time will quickly creep up on him.
Guice has a solid 2016, as he finished with 1,387 yards on 183 carries and accounted for 15 touchdowns on the ground. As a starter next season, many of the Tiger faithful believe he can double those numbers– and essentially compete for the Heisman Trophy. Should Guice be able to carry the team on his back in 2017, the Tigers will be in a good position to make the College Football Playoff.
Tigers head coach Ed Orgeron has stated that “LSU will make the College Football Playoff in 2017”. As far as Guice is concerned, his style of ‘running angry’ will carry him a long way in his college career. The backstory of Guice is an inspiration to read, and helps us all understand where he came from growing up in South Baton Rouge.
Aside from that, Guice is in line to be the next LSU great at the running back position. He will be in the spotlight in 2017 behind the two incoming quarterbacks for the Tigers, Myles Brennan and Lowell Narcisse.
Playing with one of those dynamic quarterbacks will be exciting to see how Guice transitions into his starting role. As LSU is a pound for pound running team, the junior back should have no problem shredding defenses.
Outlook for Guice in 2017
For the upcoming season, Guice will be called upon to lead the way in the backfield. Behind Guice is Nick Brossette, who hasn’t seen much playing time in his career. Should Guice go down, Brossette is the next man up. But as far as it goes for Guice, his ability to shred a defense with his speed has been tremendous to watch. Like Fournette, Guice has power in his style with just a bit more speed. He is faster than Fournette, which would explain why he reaches the end zone so quickly fending off defenders.
Should LSU field a solid team next season, Guice will be a big factor as to why. Every position for LSU is stacked next season, especially at quarterback and running back. Expect Guice to be a force to reckon with for opposing defenses next season, as will the whole team. Much of the hype is going to the star-to-be running back, and with good reason. He was a great back in 2016, and he should continue to flash his greatness as his career rolls along.
Predictions for Guice and LSU
Many people speculate that LSU will have another average year next season. That’s where they are completely wrong. Put the shaky 2016 season behind and prepare for a national championship. That prestigious trophy and the Heisman Trophy will be coming home to Baton Rouge where it belongs.
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