LSU returns to rankings in early preseason polls

With the momentum from a 38-3 victory over Georgia Tech in the Chick-fil-A Bowl, LSU returns to the Top 10 in two early preseason polls. The Tigers rank No. 5 by Rivals.com, behind national champion Florida, Texas, Southern California and Oklahoma. “QB Jordan Jefferson’s performance in the Chick-fil-A Bowl provides hope that the offense will be more consistent,” Rivals.com says of LSU. ESPN.com college football writer Mark Schlabach ranks the Tigers at No. 9, behind Florida, Texas, Oklahoma, USC, Alabama, Ohio State, Virginia Tech and Boise State. “Freshman quarterback Jordan Jefferson’s performance … in the Chick-fil-A Bowl gives the Tigers plenty of hope for 2009,” Schlabach says. “Inconsistent quarterback play and a surprisingly porous defense were LSU’s biggest deficiencies in 2008. Former Tennessee defensive coordinator John Chavis should shore up the defense, which must replace its entire defensive line and middle linebacker Darry Beckwith.” Sports Illustrated’s Stewart Mandel also has the Tigers at No. 9, noting that Jefferson and running back Charles Scott will return. “The defensive front is still loaded with talent, and a year’s experience should help a struggling secondary,” Mandel says.