Depth, despite its five letters, is much like a four-letter word in college football at times.
Everyone is searching for it, and it is quite difficult to obtain.
Some teams have their depth tested more than others, but the idea is to always have plenty of it. The first two seasons for Coach Michael Desormeaux at Louisiana showed a lack of it at times.
“Ultimately, we’re very close to where we want to be. For us, it’s time to close the gap, and the gap is not very big. It’s very attainable.”
Michael Desormeaux made that comment as a part of his opening statements at Sun Belt Football Media Days 2024 in New Orleans, Louisiana on Wednesday afternoon.
The first season for Desormeaux was a combination of factors, none bigger than Billy Napier’s departure creating a mass exodus for a significant portion of the roster. Despite that, the Cajuns found their way to six wins and a bowl game.
Last season, it felt like the foundation had begun to be rebuilt. The offensive and defensive lines had more transfers, recruits, and players who at least had collegiate playing experience. However, injuries stacked up, close games went the other way, and the Cajuns won six games again. Coach Des understands how small the margin for error is in the Sun Belt Conference.
“The difference in finishing in the middle of the pack in this league and at the very top is how you handle these one-possession games.”
This year’s team brings back important experience at almost every position group. Just look at the offensive line. This team returns four starters, and several other players have playing experience. The group is led by AJ Gillie, who brings almost 40 career starts to the table.
“For three years, it’s kind of what we have been working on is to recreate the blueprint of some of our most successful teams. Offensively, it starts with having really talented guys up front on the offensive line, having depth there,” Desormeaux said about the focus on the running game.
The quarterback room in 2024 is unique, as Chandler Fields and Ben Wooldridge both decided to return. With Wooldridge healed and ready to compete, it will be another open competition between the two, marking the third time they will battle it out. Regardless of who wins, the Cajuns’ signal-caller will be someone who has been in the fire plenty.
“We’ve got two veteran quarterbacks that have won games for us, that have played really well for us at times… whoever ends up winning this job coming out of camp is going to put us in position to go out there and play winning football.”
The defensive side brings back key contributors at all three levels. However, there is one new voice in that room. First-year defensive coordinator Jim Salgado will bring his tweaks in an effort to improve on that side of the ball.
“Confidence comes from doing it… it looks like a more veteran group on defense,” Desormeaux stated about that side of the ball. He does not think the scheme tweaks will hold that group back.
Overall, the 2024 season feels like the first for Michael Desormeaux with a full allotment of depth across the board. That depth still needs to perform, and their first chance to do so is only a little over a month away.
The Louisiana Ragin’ Cajuns open the 2024 season on August 31st against Grambling.