Three and out: Here are our instant takeaways from LSU football's spring game – NOLA.com

LSU quarterback Garrett Nussmeier (13) looks to make a pass during position drills at spring practice on Saturday, April 6, 2024 in Baton Rouge, Louisiana.
LSU quarterback Garrett Nussmeier (13) looks to make a pass during position drills at spring practice on Saturday, April 6, 2024 in Baton Rouge, Louisiana.
LSU played its spring game Saturday afternoon inside Tiger Stadium. It was an offense vs. defense scrimmage, with both sides able to earn points. Here are three takeaways from a 34-34 tie.
Garrett Nussmeier looked sharp in his first spring game as the starting quarterback, as did the rest of the first-team offense. Nussmeier threw a 45-yard touchdown to Mississippi State transfer Zavion Thomas and a 59-yard touchdown to senior Kyren Lacy. He finished 7-of-7 passing for 187 yards with no interceptions over three series. Between Nussmeier’s touchdowns, running back Kaleb Jackson added a 32-yard score when the offensive line opened a gaping hole.
The LSU offense probably will be in good shape, but the game reinforced concerns about the defense. Thomas and Lacy were wide open on their touchdowns, and Lacy added another 42-yard reception. Jackson was untouched on his score. Running back Josh Williams had an easy touchdown during a red-zone period. Defensive coordinator Blake Baker used basic calls, but the unit has a lot of work to do this offseason, especially at defensive tackle and in the secondary.
The spring game offered a chance to evaluate backups and young players. Playing against the second-team offensive line, early enrollee defensive end Gabriel Reliford recorded two sacks, 3½ tackles for loss and one hurry. Redshirt freshman Kylin Jackson added a sack and a pass breakup as the backup star. Liberty transfer receiver CJ Daniels also made a couple of nice catches against the second-team defense. He spent spring practice with the backups but should be a factor this season.
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