Big wins open eyes, especially ones of recruits, for LSU

Maybe it was a coincidence, but I doubt it.Less than two weeks after LSU’s resounding 36-16 win over then second ranked Georgia, a top Bulldog commit renounced his pledge.

Destrehan running back John Emery, considered one of the best if not the top player at his position in the country, re-opened his recruiting.

That LSU is back in the picture is great news for head coach Ed Orgeron, who never gave up on the pursuit of one of the most talented runners ever to hail from the river parishes.

Orgeron made reference to Emery on Tuesday at the Greater New Orleans Sports Foundation Quarterback Club, without naming the prospect directly, a clear violation of recruiting rules.

“I think LSU should get the best running back in the country, and that is what we are looking for,” said Orgeron.

The head coach of the Tigers also mentioned that a certain prospect was close to home.

Emery was in attendance October 13 when the Tigers dismantled the Bulldogs at Tiger Stadium.

It was the most complete performance for an LSU team perhaps since the Tigers defeated Ohio State in the January 2008 BCS championship.

Emery had to be impressed.

LSU has plenty to offer, including an immediate opening when senior running back Nick Brossette completes his eligibility. Emery can stay home and play right away. When his playing career is done, Emery would have a huge foot in the door if he lives in the area in the football afterlife.

This season, Brossette has made a quantum leap. He’s rushed for 697 yards and scored 10 touchdowns after not reaching the end zone in three previous seasons.

Orgeron believes in power football. His running backs will always get plenty of work.

In the meantime, there’s a long way to go before recruiting is wrapped up in February. But Orgeron already has commitments from five of the top nine players in Louisiana as ranked by 247 sports.

If LSU adds Emery and two Amite stars, defensive tackle Ishmael Sopsher and wide receiver Devonta Lee, the Tigers would have a banner year in-state. That would include keeping perennial predator Alabama locked out of the top players in Louisiana.

If it happens, that would be a huge marker for Orgeron.

Of course, an upset of Alabama would be his biggest moment yet.

As we have seen recently, wins over teams that played for the national championship in the past season have a way of opening eyes and re-opening commitments.

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