The LSU Tigers have long been a powerhouse in college football, known for their elite athletes, high-flying offense, and a rich tradition of producing NFL talent. As the 2024 season progresses, LSU has continued to showcase their depth and talent on the offensive side of the ball. With a roster filled with playmakers, this season has seen several players stand out in particular. Thanks to advanced analytics and grading systems like Pro Football Focus (PFF), we can take a closer look at the Tigers’ top five graded offensive players of 2024. These players have been essential to LSU’s success and are poised to be difference-makers in both college football and at the next level.
### 1. **Jayden Daniels – Quarterback**
– **PFF Grade: 91.4**
It should come as no surprise that LSU’s quarterback, Jayden Daniels, leads the charge as the highest-graded offensive player in 2024. The senior signal-caller has been exceptional, building on his already impressive 2023 campaign and further establishing himself as one of the top quarterbacks in the nation.
Daniels has continued to impress with his dual-threat ability, balancing a dynamic arm with his lethal legs. What has really separated him this season, though, has been his efficiency. His ability to read defenses, make quick decisions, and throw with accuracy has allowed LSU to remain one of the top offensive units in the SEC. With a PFF grade of 91.4, Daniels has shown remarkable consistency, posting impressive completion percentages and limiting turnovers. His 2024 campaign has seen him develop into a true Heisman contender, and he’s played a major role in LSU’s continued dominance.
Daniels’ mobility has allowed LSU’s offense to thrive on broken plays, and his deep-ball accuracy has kept opposing defenses on their heels. His ability to execute both in the pocket and outside of it, making pinpoint throws on the move, has made him one of the most dangerous quarterbacks in college football.
### 2. **Maason Smith – Offensive Tackle**
– **PFF Grade: 90.2**
LSU’s offensive line has been one of the best in the SEC in 2024, and a huge part of that success is Maason Smith. The 6-foot-6, 320-pound junior has been a dominant force at left tackle for the Tigers. Smith’s 90.2 PFF grade speaks volumes about his ability to protect the quarterback and clear paths in the running game.
What makes Smith such a valuable player is his combination of size, strength, and agility. He’s often tasked with blocking some of the most talented pass-rushers in the country, and he consistently wins those battles. Whether it’s in pass protection or as a run blocker, Smith’s ability to sustain blocks, create space, and dominate the line of scrimmage has allowed LSU’s offense to operate at a high level.
For LSU, having a reliable offensive tackle like Smith has allowed Daniels to stay upright and execute the offense to its full potential. The Tigers have been able to operate a balanced attack, mixing in the pass and run with ease, and Smith’s blocking is a major reason for that success.
### 3. **Josh Williams – Running Back**
– **PFF Grade: 89.3**
Josh Williams has had a breakout season in 2024, solidifying himself as one of the best running backs in the SEC. With a PFF grade of 89.3, Williams has been a key contributor to LSU’s offensive game plan, especially in a season that has seen the Tigers shift to a more balanced attack. Williams brings power, speed, and versatility to the backfield, making him a constant threat in both the running and passing game.
What stands out about Williams is his vision and ability to read blocks, waiting patiently for holes to open up before bursting through them. His ability to break tackles and churn out yards after contact makes him a difficult player to stop. Additionally, Williams has been an asset in the passing game, showing soft hands and the ability to pick up yards through the air.
Williams has been a stabilizing force for LSU’s offense, especially when they need to control the clock and move the chains. With the ability to contribute in both short-yardage and open-field situations, Williams has proven to be a multi-dimensional weapon for offensive coordinator Mike Denbrock.
### 4. **Kyren Lacy – Wide Receiver**
– **PFF Grade: 88.7**
LSU’s receiving corps in 2024 has been loaded with talent, but one player who has particularly stood out is senior Kyren Lacy. Lacy’s PFF grade of 88.7 reflects his ability to make plays down the field and be a consistent target for Jayden Daniels. The 6-foot-2 wideout has been one of the most productive players in LSU’s receiving game, showcasing his ability to win contested catches and stretch the field.
What sets Lacy apart from other wide receivers is his ability to create separation with smooth route running and great speed. He has been particularly effective in deep ball situations, where he has shown an uncanny ability to track the ball and make plays at critical moments. Lacy’s physicality and speed make him a tough matchup for opposing defensive backs, and he’s become one of Daniels’ favorite targets in 2024.
As a result, Lacy has played a critical role in LSU’s ability to stretch the field, and he’s been a big reason why the Tigers have been so effective in the passing game. With a mix of size, speed, and hands, Lacy is one of the most complete wide receivers in the SEC.
### 5. **Mason Taylor – Tight End**
– **PFF Grade: 87.5**
While LSU has historically been known for its elite wide receivers and running backs, tight end Mason Taylor has emerged as one of the most important pieces of the offense in 2024. With a PFF grade of 87.5, Taylor has been a consistent performer both as a pass-catcher and as a blocker, making him a versatile weapon for the Tigers.
At 6-foot-5, Taylor’s size makes him a matchup nightmare for defenders, whether he’s lined up in the red zone or across the middle of the field. His ability to create mismatches with defenders has allowed LSU to utilize him in a variety of ways. Taylor has been particularly effective as a security blanket for Daniels, giving the quarterback a reliable option in key situations.
Beyond the passing game, Taylor’s blocking has been vital in LSU’s offensive success. He’s been able to seal the edge in the running game and provide crucial blocks for running backs like Josh Williams. His all-around ability to both block and catch makes him an integral part of LSU’s balanced offensive attack.
### Conclusion: A Balanced and Talented Offense
As LSU heads into the offseason with aspirations for a national championship run, these top five graded offensive players from 2024 have been crucial to the team’s success. Jayden Daniels has developed into one of the nation’s top quarterbacks, leading the offense with poise and precision. Maason Smith has anchored a powerful offensive line, giving Daniels time to throw and opening lanes for the running backs. Josh Williams has been a force in the backfield, providing stability and versatility to the offense, while Kyren Lacy and Mason Taylor have been reliable playmakers in the passing game, each bringing their unique skill sets to the table.
Together, these players have helped LSU build an offense that is dynamic, balanced, and difficult to stop. With the talent and performance of these key contributors, LSU remains a serious contender for college football’s biggest prizes in 2024 and beyond. If they can continue to perform at this level, the Tigers will be poised for an exciting finish to the season.
