NEW ORLEANS (WVUE) – In this edition of FFF: LSU’s postseason hopes hinge on their defensive performance, Mexico exits early from the Copa America, and New Orleans is now a pizza hotspot.
FOOTBALL
The LSU offense in 2024 is formidable, boasting one of the nation’s top offensive lines, a strong-armed quarterback in Garrett Nussmeier, a deep pool of receivers, and a solid running back lineup. They are poised to excel this season.
However, the defense raises several concerns, particularly in two areas.
Firstly, the interior defensive line is uncertain. The current starters, Jacobian Guillory and Florida transfer Jalen Lee, have modest stats, with Guillory recording 27 tackles in 13 games and Lee contributing two tackles in seven games last season. Additional support might come from Wisconsin transfer Gio Paez and junior college transfer Shone Washington.
Secondly, the LSU secondary, known as “DBU,” is not meeting expectations. The cornerback roster includes sophomores Ashton Stamps and Javien Toviano; transfers JK Johnson, Jyaire Brown, and Zy Alexander (returning from injury); and freshman PJ Woodland. While there’s no standout cornerback, fans hope that new defensive coordinator Blake Baker can revitalize this group.
FÚTBOL
Mexico’s Copa America campaign ended in disappointment, failing to advance past the group stage for the fourth time in five appearances. After a 0-0 draw with Ecuador, Mexico scored only one goal in three matches despite 57 shots, with that lone goal securing a 1-0 win over Jamaica.
This continues a series of setbacks for Mexico in major tournaments, including an early exit from the 2022 World Cup, their first group stage elimination since 1978. Furthermore, the U.S. has been dominating Mexico recently, with the United States Men’s National Team setting a record of seven consecutive unbeaten matches against Mexico and defeating them 2-0 in the Concacaf Nations League final.
FOOD
New Orleans’ pizza scene is gaining national recognition. St. Pizza on Magazine Street, which opened less than six months ago, has quickly become a local favorite and has now been named one of the 22 “best pizza places in the world” by The New York Times, thanks to New Orleans transplant Brett Anderson.
Additionally, Pizza Delicious in Bywater has made the “50 Top Pizza USA 2024” list for the second consecutive year. Zee’s Pizzeria is also expected to receive accolades soon, as it is considered on par with these renowned establishments.
