As competition fueled the offseason on LSU’s offensive line, Virginia Tech center Braelin Moore wasted no time locking down the center job. Moore played so well in fall camp that Brian Kelly said in a press conference that Moore has locked down the starting job early on. After starting the past two seasons at Virginia […]
As competition fueled the offseason on LSU’s offensive line, Virginia Tech center Braelin Moore wasted no time locking down the center job. Moore played so well in fall camp that Brian Kelly said in a press conference that Moore has locked down the starting job early on.
After starting the past two seasons at Virginia Tech, Moore came to LSU with hopes of leading an SEC team to the playoff and it appears he’s going to get that opportunity. On Friday night, he sat down with the media in Baton Rouge and discussed his time at LSU and what he expects from this team. Here’s everything he said.
Game week is almost here. How are you feeling?
“I’m super excited. Can’t wait. I played Clemson last year and we came out on the losing end, so I’m looking to change that.”
How is this O-line shaping up?
“It just took time to build chemistry. When you lose four NFL guys, it’s tough, but with practice and reps we’ve gotten a lot better.
What have you seen from Garrett Nussmeier?
“Great leader. He can put the ball anywhere. You love playing for guys like that, and we’re going to protect him.”
How have you and Garrett built that connection?
“It started on my visit. I went to his house, we talked for a while. He laid out what he saw for us this year and told me I was a huge part of it. When I got here, it continued, hanging out, watching film, talking through what this team and offense need. I feel like we’re the leaders of the offensive unit. He’s focused on the skill guys, I’m focused on the O-line, and we’ve done a good job bringing it together.”
What was it about LSU that made you decide to come here?
“Two things. I wanted to compete for a national championship, I felt like we fell short of that at my previous school. And I wanted to be developed. I took a big jump my freshman year, then plateaued. I knew I had more in me but wasn’t getting what I needed. Working with Coach Davis and the assistants, I’m surrounded by high-level football knowledge. My game has taken off since I’ve been here — learning so much about defensive fronts, schemes, and what we’re trying to accomplish on each play.
How would you describe your responsibility?
“The center controls everything: communication, getting everyone aligned. There have been plays where we run zone and someone goes the wrong way. It may not technically be on me, but that’s the expectation here. I need to have everyone in line and know what they’re doing. It’s been an adjustment, becoming more vocal and taking control of the unit, but I’ve embraced the challenge and I feel like I’m getting good at it.
How important are those things you just mentioned?
“Extremely important. Communication is key, especially in an environment with 90,000 people. You call it Death Valley for a reason — you can’t hear each other. We just need to be on the same page. Some guys don’t have much game experience, so being there for each other is vital.”
You talked about how you’ve grown since you got to LSU. In what ways?
“Mainly understanding defenses. Seeing a linebacker creeping up, a safety stacked, knowing pressure is coming. Reading keys: if a guy is in one stance and flips his hand down, he might be crossing face. Just little details like that.”
Coach Kelly spoke highly of the offensive line but said there’s still competition in spots. Does that just speak to the talent in the room?
“Absolutely. There are four- and five-stars throughout the room. Everyone’s hungry. Only a couple guys have a lot of game experience, and others are chomping at the bit. But this group is unselfish, we want the best five out there. It’s good competition, and we’ll get the best five.”
How has it been working with Brad Davis?
“I love Brad. I needed a coach like him to push me every day, communication, practice, everything. It was a big adjustment coming here. I’m from Virginia where it’s not nearly this hot. Practicing here felt like a microwave. But I’ve learned to fight through tough stuff and become more vocal. Brad has pushed me to limits I didn’t think I could reach, and I’m very appreciative.”
The defensive line seems to put a lot of pressure on you guys. What have you seen from them?
“They’re loaded with talent. They worked the portal well, and those guys compete every day. They get us better. Some days they’ve dominated, some days we’ve responded, that’s what you want. We’re making each other better. I expect a lot of sacks, TFLs, and chaos from them this season.”
LSU didn’t rank high in rushing last year. What will it take to run the football?
“Understanding the scheme, knowing what we’re trying to accomplish on each play, and focusing on the little details — footwork, hand placement, hat placement. Coach Davis always says the play is won or lost in the first second. He’s very technical and I’ve seen huge strides in us from spring to now.”
Category: General Sports
