SerpApi.Org
LSU coach Lane Kiffin’s makeshift defensive line brings transfer portal questions appeared first on ClutchPoints. Add ClutchPoints as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
Lane Kiffin comes into LSU with high expectations. It could be a CFP-or-bust situation for Kiffin and LSU this season. Still, he has all the resources and tools to make a run at the playoffs and make a run in the CFP as well. The team brings back a lot of solid pieces on both offense and defense, while also bringing in plenty of players in the transfer portal.
Still, while LSU was ranked 12th in defensive SP+ in 2025, they have one major question on the defensive line, according to Bill Connelly of ESPN.
“If … the portal delivered a defensive line. Per SP+, Blake Baker crafted LSU’s best defense since 2018 last season, and in linebackers Whit Weeks and TJ Dottery (Ole Miss), corners PJ Woodland and DJ Pickett and safeties Tamarcus Cooley and Ty Benefield (Boise State), he has massive star potential with which to work. But on the D-line, he returns only one of last season’s top eight, and a majority of six transfers, including ends Princewill Umanmielen (Ole Miss) and Jordan Ross (Tennessee), and tackles Malik Blocton (Auburn) and Stephiylan Green (Clemson), need to be plug-and-play guys,” Connelly wrote.
Watch sports LIVE with fuboTV (free trial)
Coming back from last year’s line are Dominick McKinley and Gabriel Reliford. McKinley was a former five-star recruit on the defensive line. The defensive tackle had 12 tackles last year, with a sack and a pass breakup. Reliford had eight tackles last year, but played in just three games and did not see action after September.
Still, some of the transfers have the potential to be stars. Princewill Umanmielen had nine sacks in 2025, while also intercepting a pass for Ole Miss. Jordan Ross also had 1.5 sacks and a forced fumble last year. Blockton and Green were both solid on the interior of the defensive line and will make a solid rotation with McKinley.
Now, Kiffin looks to do something that Brian Kelly could never do: make the College Football Playoff. LSU opens its 2026 campaign on September 5 against Clemson.
Like ClutchPoints’ content? Be sure to follow us.
Related: Ohio State’s national title hopes hit with pass defense warning
Related: Alabama football star Ryan Coleman-Williams’ drop woes hit with harsh reality by analyst
