The Louisiana Ragin’ Cajuns held their 2024 Spring Football Game on Saturday evening.
Due to the renovations at Cajun Field, the game had a different look to it. It was held in the indoor practice facility and was closed to the public, with only a small group of friends and family on hand.
Here are some of my takeaways from the event:
The offense may be ahead of the defense:
Despite some indications that the defense has had an excellent spring, they really struggled on Saturday. That may be, however, a result of the offense and their execution.
During red zone drills, the offense scored on all five drives. That included drives with the backups as well as the starters.
The running game was effective and there were also some nice passing connections, specifically on third down.
Samari Collier is a serious talent at the quarterback position:
Collier is a junior college transfer, brought in to help the Cajuns with depth behind their two experienced returners at the position in Chandler Fields and Ben Wooldridge.
With Wooldridge out all spring due to injury, Collier has taken advantage of the extra reps. The 6’2 signal caller showed off his quick release and strong arm throughout the day.
During the full scrimmage portion of the day, Collier connected with receiver Robert Williams on a 50-yard deep ball, capped by a diving catch. All in all, he had a tremendous day and may be proving to Coach Desormeaux that he will be ready to play if called on this season.
The offensive line is deep and experienced:
While some position groups on this team are working in fresh names and faces, the offensive line features plenty of familiar ones.
Landon Burton, AJ Gillie, and Jax Harrington figure to work in the interior.
George Jackson, Bryant Williams, Quinton Williams, and others will be in the mix at the tackle spot.
Overall, the position seems deeper and more cohesive heading into this season than it did in the past. That may be a key in the Cajuns getting a more consistent and effective running game together.