Clyde Edwards-Helaire will soon become a household name for LSU football fans. The sophomore running back has all the traits of being a future NFL draft pick. Although he hasn’t seen a lot of playing time, Edwards-Helaire is putting in the necessary work to become a leader for the Tigers.
Clyde Edwards-Helaire Can Become The Next Feature Back for LSU
Ed Orgeron and staff are searching for their next go-to back. The Tigers have a tandem of consistent players to choose from. Nick Brossette is the likely starter coming into the 2018 season. He has the most playing experience among the running backs on the roster. But Edwards-Helaire is steadily working his way up the depth chart. Replacing Derrius Guice won’t be an easy task for the Tigers. And as new offensive coordinator Steve Ensminger takes over, the rushing attack could get even more dangerous for opponents stepping on the field against the Tigers.
Edwards-Helaire has begun to make a name for himself in Baton Rouge. When he first arrived on campus, the team knew what they could expect from him. The sophomore has the ability to get into open space in a flash. Take Leonard Fournette and Guice for instance. Both of those backs were elusive with their running styles. Edwards-Helaire is the same way. Although we have yet to see him play on the field, he has shown glimpses of brilliance in practice.
At 5’8″, Edwards-Helaire has an advantage. Though he is small for a running back, he knows how to get into open space and avoid tackles. It will be interesting to see how he plays out in spring practice, which begins this week. As the Tigers prep for yet another season, Edwards-Helaire is patiently awaiting his chance. His chance to shock the college football world is just around the corner.
Future Feature Back
Being the feature back at such a historic program like LSU is a privilege. Just ask Fournette and Guice. They know what it takes to be in the leading role. If Edwards-Helaire is to take the role early, he has to first prove that he deserves it. The sophomore doesn’t have a whole lot of college playing experience, but that will not hold him back from making a run for it. Brossette is the likely candidate, but Tiger fans should keep an eye on Edwards-Helaire throughout spring sessions.
As far as being named the starter, he’ll have to earn that title. LSU fans are excited to see what he can bring to the table. The next feature back for LSU is already on campus and awaiting his spotlight.
Final Thoughts
Even with a stable of running backs, and some that weren’t mentioned, Clyde Edwards-Helaire has all of the right traits to be the next feature back in Baton Rouge. Only time will tell if he is deserving of the lead role, though. Hopefully Tiger fans will get their chance to see him play extended time during the spring game on April 21. The 2018 season is slowly approaching, Tiger fans. For Edwards-Helaire, his time to shine might also be just around the corner.
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