Former LSU Player Named Biletnikoff Semifinalist While Tigers Struggle at Receiver
This weekend highlighted LSU’s offensive struggles near the red zone, exposing the Tigers’ lack of reliable playmakers. The offense allowed seven sacks, which wasn’t solely due to the offensive line. LSU’s wide receivers failed to create separation, leaving quarterback Garrett Nussmeier with limited options.
Last season, Nussmeier would have fared better with star receivers like Malik Nabers and Brian Thomas Jr., both Biletnikoff-caliber players. This year, however, the Tigers lack a receiver of that caliber, though they’ve had such talent in the past.
In 2021, Jack Bech made an immediate impact as a true freshman, recording 43 catches for 489 yards and three touchdowns.
Bech’s sophomore season saw a decline in production, largely due to the rise of receivers like Nabers and Thomas. Facing reduced opportunities, Bech entered the transfer portal and landed at TCU. Just two seasons after leaving LSU, Bech has emerged as a Biletnikoff Award semifinalist.
This season, Bech has caught 56 passes for 982 yards and nine touchdowns, averaging an impressive 17.5 yards per catch. His 982 yards rank sixth nationally and fourth among Power Four players. His nine touchdowns are tied for eighth in the country, just one score away from third place and two from second.
Adapting to the New Era of College Football
Jack Bech’s departure wasn’t entirely LSU’s fault—it’s a symptom of the transfer portal era. When players don’t see a clear path to playing time, they now have the freedom to seek opportunities elsewhere, which inevitably affects depth across college football.
For LSU and head coach Brian Kelly, retaining key talent is more crucial than ever. Ensuring that promising players get opportunities to contribute can help convince them to stay and build toward future success.