CBS Sports' Jerry Palm outlines what LSU needs to do to make the College Football Playoffs

I recently had the opportunity to discuss LSU football with Jerry Palm from CBS Sports.

Here's what Jerry thinks about the Tigers heading into the 2024 season.

Craig: Many LSU faithful that I speak to on a daily basis are pointing to a favorable schedule and hosting seven games this season at Tiger Stadium as reasons as to why they can qualify for a playoff berth. What is your reaction to hearing that?

Jerry: Here's what needs to happen. They're not going to replace Jayden Daniels of course. They'll be better than fine at quarterback this season with Garrett, but if they don't significantly improve on the defensive side of the ball, it's not going to happen for them. The SEC has four top teams right now. It's pretty much Georgia, Texas, Alabama and Ole Miss. You have to be a top four team in all probability to reach the playoff from the SEC. The key for LSU is they just can't give up lots of points once again to opponents.

Craig: On the defensive side of the ball, Blake Baker is calling the shots. How dramatically can he improve the defense in his year one here? He has a history elsewhere of turning programs around.

Jerry: He brings confidence, no doubt there. As much as it's about scheme and his track record of success, it's also about getting better players. If the secondary is truly improved as they claim, that will be a good start.

Craig: On the offensive side, what is your assessment of QB Garrett Nussmeier? He looked pretty good in the bowl win over Wisconsin.

Jerry: (laughs) that's just a bowl win. There will be a step down from Jayden who had the magic touch with his arm and legs. LSU is coming off a unique and special season. The thing going for Garrett is that the offensive line is returning, and they are anchored by a really good player in Will Campbell. When you have that experience on the line, it gives your skill position players early in the season to establish a rhythm and then when conference play hits, you're on a roll.

Craig: At the core of any great program is the ability to recruit. LSU landed many big time prospects in the 2025 class. You feel good about the job Brian Kelly has done on the recruiting trail?

Jerry: You have to be able to bring in talent when competing in the SEC, especially with Texas and Oklahoma in the mix. Oklahoma is a great program, and they might be a middle of the road team in this conference in 2024.

Craig: Eleven total Heisman winners between LSU and their opening opponent USC. They each have storied histories and national championships. How great of an opener will that be for college football fans?

Jerry: That's a big springboard game for each of those teams. If LSU has ambitions of reaching the playoff, they need a quality win to start the season which will be viewed favorably by the selection folks on their resume at the end of the year. It's an important first game for each of those programs. USC and LSU each have great players and great bands. The pageantry around that matchup should be second to none.