The LSU Football team had a significant need at defensive tackle going into the Spring Transfer portal window and also had a smaller need for a punter. Peyton Todd was expected to be the team’s punter, but his consistency issues raised concerns, particularly for coach Brian Kelly.
Kelly commented on Todd’s Spring Game performance, saying:
“Not as consistent as I would like, I thought today was an opportunity for him to just say ‘There is no competition here’ and he’s got to be more consistent quite frankly.”
In response, the LSU Football team sought to secure a new punter and has now added Louisiana Tech Punter Blake Ochsendorf. In 2023, Ochsendorf punted 53 times for 2,423 yards, averaging 45.7 yards per punt, with a season-long of 70 yards. Ochsendorf led Conference USA in punting average and ranked in the top 20 nationally.
This addition sets up an open competition at the punter position between Peyton Todd and Blake Ochsendorf this Spring. This competition could either elevate Todd’s performance to meet the team’s expectations or provide a more reliable option in Ochsendorf.
Smart use of available scholarships
The LSU Football team has addressed a potential issue for the upcoming 2024-25 season by securing a new punter. Although they did not acquire as many defensive players as hoped this Spring, they now have additional scholarships. This allows the Tigers to have a competition at the punter position this Summer, rather than taking a chance, which is a prudent strategy.