Freshman Standouts: Xavier Atkins and Ju’Juan Johnson Set to Step Up for LSU

Xavier Atkins – Linebacker
With Harold Perkins Jr. out for the season, LSU coach Brian Kelly has turned to true freshman Xavier Atkins to step up. Kelly sees Atkins as the next linebacker to be activated, and the best way to accelerate his development is through valuable game experience. Although Atkins was signed as a three-star recruit, he has quickly impressed the coaching staff since arriving in Baton Rouge.

**Ju’Juan Johnson – Running Back**
Freshman running back Caden Durham has been a standout for LSU, dominating the game. Given his importance to the team in the long run, it would be wise for the Tigers to manage his workload. True freshman Ju’Juan Johnson is the ideal candidate to take over in the second half. After transitioning from safety to running back, Johnson has excelled as a receiver, but LSU should now focus on giving him more opportunities to showcase his skills as a runner.