Pete Jenkins on Bo Davis and LSU Football Defensive Line Situation

LSU football has been making headlines with its latest coaching moves, particularly concerning its defensive line.

With the anticipated hiring of Bo Davis as LSU’s new defensive line coach, legendary defensive line guru Pete Jenkins has weighed in on the situation, offering insight into what Davis brings to the Tigers and the state of the team’s defensive front.

Pete Jenkins’ Take on Bo Davis

Pete Jenkins, a longtime mentor to many defensive line coaches—including Bo Davis—has expressed strong support for the hire.

Jenkins, who briefly returned to LSU in 2023 as a defensive line consultant, believes Davis is the right man for the job, citing his ability to develop elite talent and instill a tough, disciplined mindset.

“Bo knows how to get the most out of his players,” Jenkins said. “He’s been successful everywhere he’s coached, and his experience in the SEC is invaluable. LSU’s defensive line will benefit from his energy, technique, and ability to recruit top talent.”

Davis, who has coached at Alabama, Texas, and in the NFL, is regarded as one of the top defensive line coaches in the country. His return to LSU—where he previously coached in the early 2000s—is seen as a major boost for the Tigers’ defensive front.

LSU’s Defensive Line Situation

LSU’s defensive line struggled at times during the 2023 season, particularly in stopping the run and generating consistent pressure.

Despite having star talent like Maason Smith and Mekhi Wingo, the unit underperformed, leading to a coaching shake-up.

With Bo Davis now stepping in, expectations are high for a turnaround. His reputation for developing dominant defensive linemen—such as Jonathan Allen and Da’Ron Payne at Alabama—suggests that LSU’s front four could make major strides in 2024.

What This Means for LSU Moving Forward

Davis’ impact will likely be felt both in player development and recruiting. LSU has always been a powerhouse in landing top-tier defensive line talent, and with Davis on board, the Tigers could strengthen their pipeline of elite prospects.

Jenkins, who has been involved with LSU football for decades, believes Davis is a perfect fit to restore the Tigers’ defensive line to championship-caliber play. “LSU has always been at its best when the defensive line is dominant,” Jenkins said. “Bo Davis can bring that back.”

As LSU prepares for the upcoming season, all eyes will be on how Davis transforms the defensive line and whether the Tigers can return to the elite defensive play that has defined their championship runs in the past.