LSU’s Week 2 performance against the Louisiana Tech Bulldogs was surprising, as the offense struggled mightily to find consistency and explosiveness. The defense, however, was a highlight, allowing only 154 total yards and seven points.
This defensive performance was exciting to watch after LSU’s game against Clemson, as the Tigers headed into the season with concerns that the offense might have to compensate for the defense’s struggles. However, through two weeks, the situation has flipped, with the defense holding it down and allowing the offense to find its rhythm.
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This strong defensive outing featured impressive efforts from both newcomers and homegrown players, reinforcing the notion that the Tigers’ defense has come together more quickly than some expected, given the number of new faces on that side of the ball.
Here are PFF’s top five graded LSU defenders from the Tigers’ week two win over Louisiana Tech.
Sep 6, 2025; Baton Rouge, Louisiana, USA; Louisiana Tech Bulldogs quarterback Trey Kukuk (2) is tackled as he scrambles out the pocket by LSU Tigers defensive end Jimari Butler (12) and linebacker Harold Perkins Jr. (7) during the first half against Louisiana Tech Bulldogs at Tiger Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Stephen Lew-Imagn Images
5. Ashton Stamps – 73.9
Ashton Stamps delivered a strong performance against the Bulldogs, excelling in both run defense and coverage. The former three-star cornerback made a name for himself in the 2024 season, leading the SEC in pass breakups, according to PFF. He has continued to build on that success in 2025, with no catches allowed in his nine coverage snaps so far.
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Stamps was a full-time starter for the Tigers last season and now appears to be a backup this year. Still, having a talent like him as a backup just proves the depth the Tigers have at the position.
4. Dominick McKinley – 75.9
McKinley entered the 2025 season with massive expectations as a five-star defensive tackle in the 2024 class. McKinley was the 18th-ranked prospect nationwide for that class, according to 247Sports, but was limited for much of his freshman season due to injuries.
Many expect 2025 to be his breakout year, and while the counting stats aren’t exactly there for LSU’s future star, Pro Football Focus definitely liked his performance. McKinley’s grade of 75.9 ranked in the 88th percentile among defensive tackles in Week Two. While Tigers fans hope to see some backfield production from the 6’8” behemoth, his performance was still strong.
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3. Ahmad Breaux – 78.3
Breaux had a strong showing in Week Two, recording two pressures on Bulldogs quarterback Trey Kukuk, along with two tackles. Breaux is part of the Tigers’ deep interior defensive line group, and solid performances from him and McKinley were very encouraging to see.
2. Mansoor Delane – 82.3
Delane was the Tigers’ top defensive player in Week One, and although he didn’t earn that spot again this week against Louisiana Tech, he still played exceptionally well. Delane was targeted four times, recorded a PBU, and allowed only one catch for four yards. He proved to be LSU’s top defensive player in their victory over Clemson, and showed no reason to believe otherwise against Louisiana Tech.
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1. Gabriel Reliford – 84.5
Reliford entered the year as one of LSU’s most promising defenders, as a four-star prospect from the 2024 class. This year marks his first as a major contributor, and comments from Tigers’ head coach Brian Kelly in camp only heightened the excitement about his first season playing significant snaps.
Reliford’s three quick pressures against the Bulldogs were tied for second-most in the country in Week Two, per PFSN’s Cam Mellor. He didn’t have an outstanding Week One against Clemson, but it’s hoped that after the praise he received during fall camp, this was the game that jump-started Reliford’s season.
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This article originally appeared on LSU Wire: Who were LSU football’s five best graded defenders in Week 2 win
