Bringing Back a Crucial Special Teams Item for LSU Football in 2025
In the world of college football, much of the attention is naturally directed toward offensive fireworks and defensive dominance. However, there’s one often-overlooked yet incredibly vital aspect of the game that can swing the momentum of any contest—special teams. At LSU Football, special teams have long played a pivotal role in the success of the team, often proving to be the difference between a win and a loss in tightly contested games. Heading into the 2025 season, LSU is bringing back a crucial element to its special teams unit that fans and analysts alike are eager to see in action once again.
Under the leadership of Brian Kelly, LSU has solidified itself as a top-tier program not just in terms of offensive and defensive prowess, but also in the often-forgotten realm of special teams. Whether it’s a game-changing field goal, a punt return for a touchdown, or an explosive kickoff return, LSU has shown time and time again that special teams are more than just a supporting role—they are integral to the overall success of the team.
With the 2025 season on the horizon, LSU is preparing to bring back a crucial special teams item that will significantly impact both field position and overall game strategy. This article will explore what this return means for the Tigers, how it could elevate the team’s performance, and why special teams will once again be one of LSU’s most potent weapons.
The Importance of Special Teams in College Football
Before delving into LSU’s specific plans for special teams in 2025, it’s important to understand why special teams are such a critical part of any successful college football team. Special teams are often described as the “third phase” of football—alongside offense and defense—but in many cases, they can determine the outcome of a game. Whether it’s a long punt return, a blocked field goal, or a timely onside kick, special teams plays can flip the momentum in an instant.
In tight games, where the offense and defense may cancel each other out, the ability to gain an advantage in special teams can make all the difference. A successful special teams play—whether it’s a field goal to win the game, a punt return for a touchdown, or a well-executed kick coverage—can give a team the necessary edge to secure a victory.
For LSU, special teams have often been the unsung heroes in their pursuit of championships. LSU’s success in the past few years has frequently been punctuated by key plays in special teams that have helped them win games in dramatic fashion. Returning a key player or unit to special teams can have a long-lasting effect on a team’s ability to compete at the highest level, and LSU’s return of a key special teams weapon in 2025 is expected to help them reclaim their place among the elite programs in college football.
The Crucial Special Teams Item for LSU in 2025: The Kickoff Return Game
One of the most electrifying and pivotal areas of special teams is the kickoff return game. This aspect of special teams can be a game-changer, as it directly impacts field position and, in many cases, the score itself. For LSU football in 2025, the return of a dynamic kickoff returner is a game-changing development.
LSU’s kickoff return game has been a hallmark of the program’s special teams success over the years. The Tigers have had several standout returners who could break the game wide open with just one return. Players like Derrick Dillon, Trindon Holliday, and Brad Wing have all made memorable plays on kickoff returns, sending shockwaves through Tiger Stadium and igniting the LSU faithful.
For the 2025 season, LSU is set to bring back a returner who can do just that. Greg Brooks Jr., a transfer from Arkansas, is expected to take over as the Tigers’ primary kickoff returner. Brooks brings a wealth of experience to the position, having previously excelled as a defensive back and special teams contributor at Arkansas. However, what makes Brooks especially intriguing is his combination of speed, agility, and vision, all of which are critical attributes for a successful returner.
The Return of Greg Brooks Jr.: A Game-Changer for LSU
Greg Brooks Jr.’s return ability is something LSU fans are excited to see, and for good reason. Standing at 5-foot-10 and weighing 205 pounds, Brooks possesses the physicality and toughness to handle the demands of return duties while also being explosive enough to make defenders miss. He has a low center of gravity, quick acceleration, and the ability to read blockers effectively—all qualities that make him an ideal candidate to handle LSU’s kickoff returns.
While at Arkansas, Brooks displayed his ability as a returner by consistently putting the Razorbacks in favorable field position with his dynamic returns. His combination of speed and elusiveness allows him to navigate through tight spaces and find daylight in coverage units. He’s also a patient runner who knows when to hit the gas and accelerate through holes, making him dangerous as a returner. His experience in the SEC will also benefit LSU, as he’s familiar with the intensity and speed of conference-level competition.
For LSU’s special teams unit in 2025, Brooks is expected to be the focal point of the kickoff return game. LSU’s coaching staff, led by special teams coordinator Mickey Joseph, is likely to design schemes that maximize Brooks’ ability to make big plays. Whether it’s setting up wedge blocks, using misdirection, or creating lanes for him to break into the open field, LSU will look to utilize Brooks as a primary weapon for explosive returns.
With LSU’s offense and defense poised to compete at a high level in 2025, having a strong kickoff return game can help the team control field position and create favorable starting points for their offensive drives. A long kickoff return from Brooks could immediately set up a short-field situation, giving LSU an advantage and the ability to score quickly. A dynamic returner like Brooks also forces opposing teams to be more cautious with their kicks, potentially leading to more opportunities for LSU to capitalize on poor kick coverage or even field positioning.
Impact of Special Teams in Tight Games
LSU’s return game under Brooks will be especially crucial in close matchups and high-stakes games. In games where LSU’s offense and defense are evenly matched with their opponents, special teams can make or break a game. A return touchdown or a significant gain on a kickoff return could shift the momentum in LSU’s favor, potentially putting them ahead on the scoreboard and energizing the team.
For instance, in critical games against SEC rivals such as Alabama, Georgia, or Auburn, where every possession counts, a strong return game can make all the difference. In these contests, field position often plays a decisive role, and having a returner who can consistently set the Tigers up with good starting positions gives the offense a better chance to score. Furthermore, LSU’s ability to create turnovers or capitalize on misfires by opponents on special teams could lead to opportunities that might not arise otherwise.
The return of a potent special teams asset like Greg Brooks Jr. is a game-changer in these high-pressure matchups. By consistently flipping the field with strong returns, LSU can put additional pressure on its opponents while providing the Tigers’ offense with more opportunities to capitalize on good field position.
What to Expect from LSU’s Special Teams in 2025
In addition to the strong return game, LSU’s special teams unit in 2025 will likely feature several other crucial elements that will contribute to the team’s success. The Tigers will continue to rely on a reliable kicking game, with Damian Ramos expected to handle both field goals and extra points. Ramos is an accurate kicker with a strong leg, and his ability to come through in clutch moments will be vital in close games.
LSU’s punting game will also be a key factor in maintaining field position. Jay Bramblett, a transfer from Notre Dame, will continue to handle punting duties for the Tigers. Bramblett’s ability to pin opponents deep in their own territory will force opposing offenses to drive the length of the field, increasing the chances of mistakes and giving LSU’s defense the upper hand.
Moreover, LSU’s kick coverage unit will be instrumental in ensuring that Brooks or other returners aren’t put in difficult situations by opposing kickers. A strong coverage team can ensure that LSU doesn’t give up significant yardage on returns, making it harder for opposing returners to break off long gains.
Conclusion
As LSU football heads into the 2025 season, the return of a crucial special teams item—specifically, a dynamic kickoff return game led by Greg Brooks Jr.—is set to be a defining feature of the Tigers’ strategy. Special teams, while often overlooked, will play a pivotal role in the team’s quest for an SEC title and potential national championship. With Brooks leading the charge in the return game, LSU can expect to generate explosive plays, gain valuable field position, and keep their opponents on their toes.
For LSU fans, the excitement of seeing special teams become a weapon once again is palpable. With a well-rounded team that includes explosive returners, a reliable kicker, and a strong punter, LSU is primed to make special teams a critical asset in their pursuit of glory. In a season where every advantage counts, LSU’s revitalized special teams could be the difference-maker that sets them apart from the competition.