LSU Football Could Install Packages for New Dual-Threat Quarterback on the Tigers

The LSU Tigers football team has long been known for its explosive offenses and dominant defenses, with a rich history of producing NFL talent. Under head coach Brian Kelly, the program has steadily evolved, showing a commitment to innovation on both sides of the ball. As the Tigers prepare for the future, one of the most intriguing storylines is the potential installation of specialized offensive packages to take full advantage of a new dual-threat quarterback. With a player capable of both passing and running effectively, LSU has an opportunity to revolutionize its offensive playbook and pose a unique challenge to opposing defenses.

The addition of a dual-threat quarterback brings a new level of excitement to LSU’s already talented roster. Quarterbacks who are proficient at both running and passing have become increasingly sought after in college football, and they offer a wide range of possibilities in terms of offensive strategy. With the evolution of offensive football, particularly in the SEC, having a dual-threat quarterback can be a game-changer for LSU, giving them the ability to keep opposing defenses off balance and create new mismatches.

In this article, we will explore the concept of dual-threat quarterbacks, the potential packages LSU could install for this style of play, and what it would mean for the Tigers’ offense moving forward. Additionally, we will examine how LSU’s offensive philosophy could adapt to suit the strengths of a dual-threat quarterback and how the use of such packages could impact the team’s long-term success.

What is a Dual-Threat Quarterback?

A dual-threat quarterback is one who has the ability to make plays both in the air as a passer and on the ground as a runner. These quarterbacks are known for their versatility, as they can extend plays with their legs, create big runs when the pocket breaks down, and also make accurate throws on the run. Historically, dual-threat quarterbacks have been able to take advantage of defenses that are designed to stop traditional pocket passers, using their athleticism to keep defenders on their toes.

Dual-threat quarterbacks have become more common in modern football, especially with the increased reliance on the spread offense, read-option, and RPO (run-pass option) concepts. These quarterbacks force defenses to account for both the running game and the passing game on every play. The added dimension of a mobile quarterback creates an extra layer of complexity for defensive coordinators, requiring them to prepare for both traditional pocket passing and the threat of a quarterback keeping the ball on designed runs or scrambles.

Some of the most successful college football teams in recent years have used dual-threat quarterbacks to run high-powered offenses. Programs like Oklahoma, Clemson, and Ohio State have capitalized on the ability of their quarterbacks to make plays with their legs, and LSU now appears to be heading in that direction with the addition of a new dual-threat signal-caller to their roster.

LSU’s Transition to a Dual-Threat Offense

LSU’s offense has undergone significant changes in recent years, and with the arrival of a dual-threat quarterback, those changes are poised to continue. Traditionally, LSU has relied on strong running games, explosive wide receivers, and solid quarterbacks who can manage the game and make key throws. However, with the arrival of new offensive coordinator Mike Denbrock, the Tigers have been more open to adapting to new styles of play and taking advantage of the talent they have.

The Tigers have seen success with traditional pocket passers like Joe Burrow, who led LSU to a national championship in 2019. However, the evolution of the game and the increasing prevalence of mobile quarterbacks has opened the door for a more dynamic offense at LSU. A dual-threat quarterback provides the team with the ability to stretch defenses in ways that a traditional quarterback cannot.

Head coach Brian Kelly has long been known for his ability to adapt his offensive system to the strengths of his players. During his time at Notre Dame, Kelly incorporated various offensive schemes to fit the personnel he had, and it’s clear that he will do the same with LSU. The presence of a dual-threat quarterback could lead to the development of a more dynamic, unpredictable offense that can keep defenses guessing at all times.

The Potential Packages LSU Could Install

With the addition of a dual-threat quarterback, LSU could install a variety of specialized offensive packages to take advantage of the player’s unique skill set. These packages would focus on the quarterback’s ability to both pass and run, incorporating elements of the read-option, RPOs, and play-action. Let’s take a closer look at some of the offensive packages LSU could install:

1. Read-Option Offense

The read-option offense is one of the most popular and effective ways to utilize a dual-threat quarterback. In this system, the quarterback has the option to either hand the ball off to a running back or keep it himself and run. The key to the read-option is the quarterback’s ability to read the defense, specifically the defensive end or outside linebacker, to determine whether to give the ball to the running back or keep it and run himself.

For LSU, the read-option could be particularly effective because of the talent in the backfield and the quarterback’s ability to make quick decisions. This would force opposing defenses to play with extra caution, as they would need to account for both the quarterback and the running back. The success of the read-option depends on the quarterback’s decision-making and speed, and a dual-threat signal-caller would excel in this system.

2. Run-Pass Option (RPO)

The run-pass option is another offensive strategy that could be utilized by LSU to maximize the talents of a dual-threat quarterback. The RPO is a hybrid play that allows the quarterback to make a quick decision based on the defense’s alignment. The quarterback can either hand the ball off to a running back, run it himself, or throw a pass to an open receiver.

In an RPO system, the offensive line blocks as if it’s a running play, but the quarterback has the flexibility to throw a quick pass if the defense overcommits to stopping the run. This system allows the quarterback to read the defense post-snap and make the best decision based on how the defenders react. RPOs are especially effective when the quarterback is a legitimate running threat, as defenders are often forced to choose between stopping the run or defending the pass.

For LSU, incorporating more RPO plays would add an element of unpredictability to their offense. The dual-threat quarterback would keep defenders on their heels, as they would have to account for both the passing game and the running game on every play.

3. Play-Action Pass

Play-action is a staple of many successful offenses, and with a dual-threat quarterback, LSU could run a highly effective play-action game. Play-action works by faking a run play and then having the quarterback drop back to pass. The threat of the run forces the defense to bite on the play-action fake, opening up passing lanes and giving the quarterback time to find an open receiver.

With a quarterback who is a dual threat, play-action becomes even more dangerous. Defenders may hesitate to pursue the quarterback aggressively, as they fear he might keep the ball and run. This hesitation could open up opportunities for the quarterback to either pass to a receiver or take off himself and run.

4. Quarterback Draws and Scrambles

In addition to designed runs, LSU could implement quarterback draws and scrambles as part of the offensive package. A quarterback draw is a designed play where the quarterback takes the snap and immediately looks to run, rather than pass. These plays are typically used in situations where the defense is focused on stopping the pass, but the quarterback has the ability to take advantage of running lanes.

Quarterback scrambles, on the other hand, occur when a play breaks down, and the quarterback uses his legs to extend the play and gain yards. With a dual-threat quarterback, LSU would be able to extend plays with scrambles, putting even more pressure on opposing defenses to stay disciplined in their coverage.

How a Dual-Threat Quarterback Changes LSU’s Offensive Philosophy

The addition of a dual-threat quarterback would require LSU to adapt its overall offensive philosophy. Traditionally, LSU has leaned on a power running game, complemented by a solid passing attack. However, with a dual-threat quarterback, the Tigers could move towards a more spread-out offense that takes advantage of the quarterback’s mobility and ability to make plays in space.

This shift would not necessarily mean abandoning the traditional running game, but rather incorporating more schemes that take advantage of the quarterback’s versatility. The running game could still feature power runs with a traditional running back, but the quarterback’s running ability would add an additional layer of complexity to the offense.

Moreover, LSU would likely implement more quick-hitting passes and wide receiver screens, as these plays allow the quarterback to make quick decisions and get the ball out of his hands quickly. This type of offense can wear down defenses, as defenders are forced to cover both the pass and the run on every play.

Impact on the SEC and Beyond

The SEC is widely regarded as one of the most competitive conferences in college football, and the addition of a dual-threat quarterback to LSU’s roster could help the Tigers compete at an even higher level. Defenses in the SEC are typically fast, physical, and well-coached, so having a quarterback who can break tackles, extend plays, and keep defenses off-balance would give LSU a significant advantage.

Additionally, having a dual-threat quarterback would give LSU the ability to match up against some of the conference’s top teams, including Georgia, Alabama, and Florida, who have historically been known for their tough defenses. The ability to make quick decisions and put defenses in difficult situations would be a huge asset for LSU in big games and in their quest to contend for SEC and national titles.

 A New Era for LSU Football?

The potential for LSU to implement packages for a dual-threat quarterback marks a new era for the program. This dynamic quarterback, capable of both passing and running effectively, offers the Tigers a new level of flexibility and unpredictability in their offense. With the right system in place, LSU could become even more dangerous and difficult to defend against, both in the SEC and on the national stage.

As LSU continues to build for the future, the incorporation of these offensive packages could signal a shift in how the Tigers approach the game. The ability to blend traditional power football with modern spread concepts, utilizing the full range of a dual-threat quarterback’s abilities, would make LSU an even more potent offensive force. For LSU fans and college football fans alike, the arrival of a dual-threat quarterback could be the spark that ignites a new chapter in the program’s storied history.