The 2017 LSU Tigers football roster captured attention across college football as the Tigers sought to build on a strong previous season. This collection of scholarship players and walk-ons defined the depth chart, special teams units, and overall identity of the program that year.
Below is a focused overview of the 2017 roster, highlighting key positions, scholarship distribution, and notable names that set the stage for the season ahead.
| Position Group | Key Starter | Notable Backup | Scholarship Count |
|---|---|---|---|
| Quarterback | Danny Etling | Trey Hubbard | 72 |
| Running Back | Derrius Guice | Kendre Miller | 82 |
| Wide Receiver | Malik Nabers | Jerald Brown | 68 |
| Defensive Line | Dequan Jackson | Javon Walker | 54 |
| Linebacker | Kaden Elliss | Devin White | 62 |
Offensive Strategy and Depth Chart in 2017
Head coach Ed Orgeron emphasized a balanced attack that blended a powerful rushing game with a developing passing attack. The quarterback competition between Danny Etling and Trey Hubbard shaped practice intensity and preseason decisions, while the running back room leaned heavily on Derrius Guice’s dynamic ability to change games in a single play.
Receiving options featured a mix of veteran leadership and youthful speed, with the coaching staff working to develop route timing and red-zone efficiency. Offensive line depth was closely monitored throughout training camp to protect the quarterback and create lanes for the rushing attack against tougher opponents.
Special teams units also factored into the roster picture, as coaches looked to return specialists who could flip field position and provide critical momentum swings in closely contested SEC matchups.
Defensive Talent and Unit Cohesion
The 2017 LSU defense aimed to build on the program’s tradition of producing impactful pass rushers and hard-hitting linebackers. Key rotational pieces along the defensive line were tasked with pressuring opposing quarterbacks and disrupting inside running lanes, while linebacker depth allowed for creative blitz packages in nickel and dime looks.
Secondary play was highlighted by tackling discipline and ball-hawking instincts, with coaches prioritizing practice reps that improved communication in the defensive backfield. The goal each week was to limit explosive plays and force opponents into methodical, time-consuming drives that the Tigers’ offense could eventually capitalize on.
Depth charts were adjusted throughout the season as injuries surfaced, showcasing the importance of having reliable backups who could step in without compromising competitive edge.
Key Players and Individual Impact
Certain names on the 2017 roster stood out due to immediate impact and postseason recognition. Derrius Guice rushed for over 1,300 yards and earned consensus All-American honors, while Danny Etling provided steady command of the offense and demonstrated growth under pressure.
On defense, emerging stars showed promise in pass coverage and run support, contributing to a unit that ranked among the conference leaders in turnovers forced. Coaching staff evaluations during spring practice and preseason games heavily influenced final depth chart positions and in-game decision-making.
Roster Management and Scholarship Allocation
LSU’s scholarship allocation followed NCAA limits while allowing flexibility within the counting process. Coaches balanced redshirt designations, medical exemptions, and transfer portal movements to maintain a competitive roster size capable of competing on every snap.
Recruiting classes in the years surrounding 2017 continually fed the talent pipeline, ensuring that depth charts remained competitive through multiple seasons. This forward planning helped the Tigers sustain success despite graduations and early departures from the program.
Looking Back at the 2017 Season Performance
The 2017 roster set the foundation for a competitive campaign that featured memorable wins and important development for younger players. Evaluations from that season influenced subsequent recruiting strategies and program priorities.
Leaders on both offense and emergence of defensive talents shaped the narrative around the program’s trajectory and long-term vision under the coaching staff.
- Review the depth chart each week to track how injuries and performance altered roster decisions.
- Study individual position battles to understand the competition for playing time and redshirt eligibility.
- Analyze special teams contributions that often determined field position and scoring opportunities.
- Follow recruiting rankings to see how incoming talent planned to sustain future roster strength.
FAQ
Reader questions
How many scholarship players were listed on the 2017 LSU Tigers roster?
The official roster included up to 85 scholarship players, with variations due to redshirt designations and temporary roster adjustments during the season.
Which position group had the most depth on the 2017 roster?
The wide receiver and linebacker groups featured multiple scholarship players and strong backups, providing flexibility in both pass coverage and run support schemes.
Were any true freshmen key contributors on the 2017 roster?
Yes, several freshmen saw meaningful action and contributed on special teams and in rotational offensive and defensive roles during the year.
How did injuries affect the 2017 LSU roster throughout the season?
Injury reports led to increased opportunities for backups, forcing adjustments in starting lineups and reshaping depth charts during critical weeks of the SEC schedule.