Joe Burrow has cemented his legacy at LSU in two seasons. The former Ohio State Buckeyes backup quarterback left in 2018 after only seeing action in a few games. His two choices were Cincinnati and LSU. When he chose to come to Baton Rouge, Tigers fans became ecstatic. Everyone knew what he was capable of producing on the field. He just needed a chance. After enrolling at LSU in the summer of 2018, the junior transfer won the starting job and led LSU to a 10-win season and a Fiesta Bowl victory over UCF.
Joe Burrow Cementing Legacy at LSU
2019 has been a much improved season for Burrow and the Tigers’ offense. New passing game coordinator Joe Brady has been a huge part of the change. Running a new style offense, Burrow has cemented his Heisman campaign and the Tigers are the top-ranked team in the country. But, not all the credit can go to Burrow. The receivers, tight ends, and running backs surrounding him are an indicative part of the success LSU has produced with their 9-0 record. Also, the offensive line has been much improved this season as well.
Another Record Will Be Broken
Going into Saturday’s game at Ole Miss, Burrow has a chance to rewrite the history books. The senior leader needs 149 passing yards to surpass Rohan Davey’s record of 3,347 yards set in 2001. Many knew Burrow could achieve the record. With such a high-scoring offense, that record will be broken this weekend. Facing the 4-6 Rebels should be more of an easy win for the Tigers. Burrow has been electric all season, and he isn’t done yet. Yes, the Tigers went into Tuscaloosa and beat Alabama for the first time in EIGHT years. However, that isn’t the ultimate goal according to the players. They want a National Championship. Burrow wants a title too. Overcoming the adversity that he faced at Ohio State has developed him into a potential top-10 pick in next year’s NFL Draft.
Heisman in his Sights
What Joe Burrow has accomplished at LSU this season hasn’t been seen before from an LSU quarterback. The only LSU player to win the Heisman Trophy is Billy Cannon in 1959. Now, the Tigers’ starter has a chance to win it. To be the first quarterback for LSU to win the Heisman would be an outstanding accomplishment. Even Matt Flynn and Matt Mauck, two of the team’s national championship-winning quarterbacks, didn’t win the Heisman. In Burrow’s case, the coveted trophy is his. The outing he put forth last week all but cemented the Heisman race. But, this season isn’t just about winning the Heisman Trophy or a championship. It goes much deeper than that.
Joe Burrow Breakdown: The Wins, Electrifying Offense, Overcoming Adversity
The way Burrow has been able to attack opposing defenses in the passing game has made LSU into the contender that they are up to this point. The run-pass option plays, screen passes, and long throws down the sidelines to Justin Jefferson, Terrace Marshall, and Jamarr Chase have ignited a spark. The sort of spark that an LSU offense isn’t accustomed to running. It’s safe to say that bringing in Joe Brady to assist offensive coordinator Steve Ensminger was the right move.
This Tigers offense has surrounded Burrow with lethal and explosive receivers, and three solid running backs. Two of which will continue to star during their next two or three seasons. Clyde Edwards-Helaire has been a workhorse all season long. Yet again, the talent around Burrow has been the most intricate part of the success. Without the explosive receivers and a consistent running back and offensive line, this offense (and Burrow) might not be putting up these numbers.
Can the Tigers Reach the Ultimate Goal?
Burrow has led the Tigers to four top ten wins this season. That’s the most out of any team in the country. 33 passing touchdowns to only four interceptions. The senior broke the program record for passing touchdowns in a game. The Heisman Trophy is in his sights. A potential SEC Championship berth is nearly locked up. After that, maybe the College Football Playoff. Barring any sudden injury, Burrow will finish his LSU career as one of the best players to ever wear the Purple and Gold. He might be called the best quarterback to ever suit up for the Tigers after it’s all said and done. Three more wins to an SEC Championship berth. The ultimate goal is still in sight for Burrow and the Tigers.
