4:45 LRN Sportscast

The Tigers kicked off preseason football practice yesterday. One of the biggest questions of camp will be who starts alongside cornerback Zy Alexander. Sophomore Javien Toviano appeared in every game last season and was reinstated after being suspended July 21 following an arrest on charges of video voyeurism. Freshman PJ Woodland is another possible candidate. Coach Brian Kelly says they are looking for consistent play from their corners…

Cut 17 (16) “…younger players.”

Construction at Alex Box Stadium is underway on the premium field level seating and bullpen relocation coming this fall. The Field Level Loges will add 52 and 106 seats along the left and right field lines in the form of 36 four-person loges and 14 individual seats. Premium seating features in-seat food and beverage service and a built-in ice chest. The Tigers bullpen will be moved to beneath the right-field bleachers.

The UL-Lafayette football team held their first fall practice today. The Cajuns led the Sun Belt in yards per carry and were top three in total rushing yards last season, but they were the second worst team in rushing allowed. Coach Mike Desormeaux says he and his staff will emphasize trench-play this preseason…

Cut 20 (20) “…we want.”

Former LSU track star Sha’Carri Richardson dominated in her Olympic debut easily winning the opening heat of the women’s 100 meter dash with a 10.94-second time. The defending world champ advances to tomorrow’s semi-final with a chance to move on to the final scheduled for tomorrow at 2:20 P.M.

LSU diver Juan Celaya Hernandez won silver for Mexico today in men’s 3-meter synchronized springboard.

11:40 LRN Sportscast

Two LSU Tigers who suffered season-ending knee injuries last season were on the practice field for the first day of preseason camp. Cornerback Zy Alexander returned after tearing his ACL on October 21st. Head coach Brian Kelly says he and running back John Emery will use the first few days of camp to see how their repaired knees respond…

Cut 16 (19) “… feeling that.”

The Tigers reinstated cornerback Javien Toviano after suspending the 19-year-old from football activities following his arrest on charges of video voyeurism. The sophomore was arrested July 21 when he surrendered to authorities accused of recording himself having sex with a woman without her consent, according to an arrest warrant. Toviano will compete for a starting corner spot after appearing in every game last season and starting three of the last five.

Construction at Alex Box Stadium is underway on the premium field level seating and bullpen relocation coming this fall. The Field Level Loges will add 52 and 106 seats along the left and right field lines in the form of 36 four-person loges and 14 individual seats. Premium seating features in-seat food and beverage service and a built-in ice chest. The Tigers bullpen will be moved to beneath the right-field bleachers.

The UL-Lafayette football team begins fall camp today. Head Coach Mike Desormeaux says the message to his team is there are no starters. He wants to see competition at every position, none more so than quarterback. Seniors Chandler Fields and Ben Woolridge have fought for the starting job the last two seasons, and Desormeaux will have to make that call again…

Cut 19 (18) “…to do it.”

6:45 LRN Sportscast

The Tigers kicked off preseason camp yesterday and Two players who suffered season-ending knee injuries last season were back on the field. Running back John Emery sustained a torn ACL against Florida on November 11th. Emery is among four scholarship running backs available to carry the football. Coach Brian Kelly says they’ll use camp to see what Emery can do…

Cut 15 (11)  “…going to go.

Emery played most of his snaps with the second-team while graduate student josh Williams got the starting reps.

Cornerback Zy alexander also made his return from an ACL injury.

LSU beach volleyball alumni Taryn Kloth and Kristen Nuss won their final match of pool play at the Olympics against China two sets to one. After losing the first set and battling through the Paris rain and a weather delay, the world’s second-ranked duo improved to 3-and-0 at the games to secure first in their pool and a spot in the single-elimination round of 16 on Sunday.

The Saints signed wide receiver Marquez Callaway. Callaway started his NFL career in New Orleans as an undrafted free agent and had an opportunity as the Black and Gold’s No. 1 wideout in 2021 racking up almost 700 yards and 6 touchdowns. He left for Denver with his former coach Sean Payton and returns as the Saints struggle with wide receiver injuries during training camp. The team had the day off yesterday and will return to practice today. Preseason play kicks off against Arizona August 10.

The UL-Lafayette football team begins fall camp today in the third year under Head Coach Mike Desormeaux. After back-to-back 6-and-7 seasons, Desormeaux says he’s fielding the most complete team he’s had yet. He says the Cajuns need to compete each day and win close games…

Cut 18 (11)  “…from everybody.”

The Cajuns kick off their 2024 campaign at home against Grambling august 31.

AM LRN Newscall Aug 2

Baton Rouge Congressman Garret Graves will lead a field hearing at Nicholls State for Republicans in the House Natural Resources Committee on drilling and restoration in the Gulf. Mel Bridges has more.

Cut 1 (29) “…I’m Mel Bridges.”

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The Great American Seafood Cookoff is what’s on the menu Saturday in New Orleans. Brooke Thorington has more on the competition.

Cut 2 (29)  “…I’m Brooke Thorington.” 

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Over 80 years after a Louisiana WWII soldier died in the Philippines, he’ll be laid to rest in Bogalusa. Mel Bridges has the story.

Cut 3 (32) “…I’m Mel Bridges.” 

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Baton Rouge Congressman Garret Graves is co-leading a field hearing for Republicans in the House Natural Resources Committee on drilling and restoration in the Gulf later today in Thibodeaux. He says though some members of Congress from coastal states may share some issues with Louisiana, our state’s shoreline is different from any other because of…

Cut 4 (10) “…United States.”

Graves estimates 6 or 7 members of the committee will join him in Lafourche Parish for the conference, including some from coastal states. However, Graves believes Louisiana’s coastal issues are different from the issues of other coastal states because Louisiana’s shore isn’t just beachy or rocky.

Cut 5 (10) “…come down.”

Graves says this field hearing is for the group to examine both the beauty and concerns of Louisiana’s coast. He hopes a firsthand look will help the House Natural Resources Committee come up with ideas to help Louisiana’s shoreline.

Cut 6 (11) “…our economy.”

The conference is being held at Nicholls State University.

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The 20th Annual Great American Seafood Cookoff is Saturday and Lt. Governor Billy Nungesser says Chase Woodward of Parish Restaurant in Monroe will be representing Louisiana. The event will take place at the Louisiana Restaurant Association’s Tradeshow in New Orleans.

Cut 7 (11) “…best seafood dish.”

Woodward will be competing against 13 other chefs to see who wins the title of the King or Queen of American Seafood. Nungesser says he’s hoping the title will return to the Bayou State.

Cut 8 (08) “…to Louisiana.”

And Nungesser says the chef from Lainey Wilson’s Nashville restaurant Bell Bottoms Up will also be there.

Cut 9 (12)  “…this year.

The event kicks off at 11 am with a parade through the Morial Convention Center

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82 years after U.S. Army Private First Class Joseph C. Murphy died as a prisoner of war in the Philippines during WWII, he’ll be laid to rest in Bogalusa. Louisiana Secretary of Veterans Affairs Col. Charleton Meginley says Murphy’s surviving family will be at the burial at Pounds Pool Cemetery in Bogalusa tomorrow…

Cut 10 (09) “…of Bogalusa.”

Murphy was just 20 years old when he died in a prisoner-of-war camp in the Philippines in 1942. He was buried in a mass grave and remained unidentified until scientists used dental records to identify him in April. Meginley says he can’t imagine the anguish Murphy’s family has been feeling.

Cut 11 (11) “…proper burial.”

Murphy will be laid to rest tomorrow at Pounds Pool Cemetery in Bogalusa at 11, followed by a ceremony and service at the local American Legion. While Murphy’s surviving family will attend the funeral, it’s also open to the public. Meginley says he hopes people show up

Cut 12 (11) “…fewer and fewer.”

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New laws concerning voter registration drives are in effect in Louisiana. Joel Watson with the Secretary of State’s Office says those wishing to hold one must be registered with their office or the Registrar of Voters in their parish. Watson points out that doing so is not their office giving clearance to conduct one.

Cut 13 (08)  “…contact you.”

Groups conducting fully electronic drives that use the Secretary of State’s voter portal at GeauxVote.com however, will not be required to register with their office. And as always when it comes to voting information in Louisiana Watson says….

Cut 14 (04)  “…more information,”

New laws concerning absentee voting also went into effect this week. You can find more information at sos.la.gov

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Two LSU Tigers who suffered season-ending knee injuries last season were on the practice field for the first day of preseason camp. Running back John Emery sustained a torn ACL against Florida on November 11th. Emery is among four scholarship running backs available to carry the football. Coach Brian Kelly says they’ll use camp to see what Emery can do…

Cut 15 (11)  “…going to go.

Cornerback Zy Alexander is also back after tearing his ACL on October 21st. Kelly says Emery and Alexander will use the first few days of camp to see how their repaired knees respond…

Cut 16 (19) “… feeling that.” 

Alexander is expected to start at one cornerback spot, who starts at the other is a big question. Freshman PJ Woodland is a possible candidate. Kelly says they are looking for consistent play from their corners…

Cut 17 (16) “…younger players.”

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The UL-Lafayette football team begins fall camp today in the third year under Head Coach Mike Desormeaux. After back-to-back 6-and-7 seasons, Desormeaux says he’s fielding the most complete team he’s had yet. He says the Cajuns need to compete each day and win close games…

Cut 18 (11)  “…from everybody.”

Desormeaux says the message to his team this camp is there are no starters. He wants to see competition at every position, none more so than quarterback. Seniors Chandler Fields and Ben Woolridge have fought for the starting job the last two seasons, and Desormeaux will have to make that call again…

Cut 19 (18) “…to do it.”

The Cajuns led the Sun Belt in yards per carry and were top three in total rushing yards last season, but they were the second worst team in rushing allowed. Desormeaux says he and his staff will emphasize trench-play this preseason…

Cut 20 (20) “…we want.”

4:45 LRN Sportscast

The LSU football team kicked off fall training camp today. The defense has been a big concern for LSU fans and staff alike. The Tigers overhauled the defensive coaching staff this offseason starting with new coordinator Blake Baker. Kelly says his young secondary has improved and expect new contributors on the defensive front…

Cut 17 (18) “…focused group.”

Linebacker Harold Perkins headlines the defense and was named to the Nagurski Award preseason watchlist for the best defensive player in college football. LSU’s season will kickoff September 1 in Las Vegas against USC.

LSU flipped three-star linebacker Jaiden Braker from South Carolina. Braker has been pledged to the Gamecocks since July 6 but now joins the Tigers’ star-studded 2025 class following a visit to LSU’s Bayou Splash event.

McNeese linebacker Micah Davey was 1 of 30 players named to the preseason watchlist for the Buck Buchanan award for the best defensive player in D-1 FCS football. Davey led the nation in tackles last season and was a finalist as the FCS top defensive player. He joins Nicholls defensive back Tyler Morton.

The Louisiana Tech football team began fall practice yesterday as they look to improve after three straight 3-and-9 seasons. The Bulldogs welcomed new Defensive Coordinator Jeremiah Johnson in December to help improve the last-ranked defense in Conference USA last season. Defensive lineman Mykol Clark thinks LA Tech can have the best defense in the league this year, and the energy in the locker room feels different…

Cut 20 (15) “…you feel that.”

The Bulldogs open their season at home against Nicholls Augst 31.

11:40 LRN Sportscast

Former LSU beach volleyball standouts Taryn Kloth and Kristen Nuss continue their Olympic run today against China. While most US teams are based in California, Kloth and Nuss chose to stay and train in Baton Rouge after playing together at LSU.  Tigers beach volleyball coach says local club Mangos hosts watch parties for their matches…

Cut 12 (10) “…just a lot of fun.”

Team TKN will take the court at 3 P.M.

The LSU football team began fall camp today, and Head Coach Brian Kelly is confident in his team heading into year three in Baton Rouge. He says the defense will be much improved from last season led by 19-year-old linebacker Harold Perkins who has physically matured…

Cut 18 (14)  “…play it.”

The Greater New Orleans Little League team will take to the diamond in Waco, Texas today to represent Louisiana in the Southwest Region of the Little League World Series. Derek Anderson led the team through districts and state in his first year as head coach and says they can beat Oklahoma…

Cut 15 (08)  “…chances.

Louisiana Tech began fall practice yesterday. The Bulldogs welcomed new Defensive Coordinator Jeremiah Johnson in December to help improve the last-ranked defense in Conference USA last season. Defensive lineman Mykol Clark says Johnson’s brought a different energy to the defense, and players are responding…

Cut 21 (18) “…right direction.”

6:45 LRN Sportscast

The LSU football team begins practice today. Head Coach Brian Kelly says this is one of the most accountable groups he’s coached in his career. He praised his offense led by what he thinks is the best o-line in the country…

Cut 16 (20) “…to watch.” 

Former LSU beach volleyball duo Taryn Kloth and Kristen Nuss will play their final match of the Olympic group stage today against China. The world’s second-ranked duo has gone 2-and-0 so far and have yet to give up a set in Paris. LSU beach volleyball coach Russell Brock says they know they can bring home the gold…

Cut 11 (12) “…just fun to watch.”

The Louisiana Tech football team began fall camp yesterday. The Bulldogs will look to improve after three straight 3-and-9 seasons. Junior quarterback Jack Turner will start this season after impressing in playing time as a backup last year. He says it takes practicing hard each and every day…

Cut 19 (16) “…eventually come.”

The Greater New Orleans little league team will represent Louisiana today in Waco, Texas in the Southwest Region of the Little League World Series. GNO won districts and fought back from the loser’s bracket to win the state championship. Head Coach Derek Anderson says his team plays for one another…

Cut 13 (11)  “…something special.”

First pitch against Oklahoma is at 1:00.

4:45 LRN Sportscast

The LSU football team reports for preseason camp today. This is Brian Kelly’s 35th season as head coach and 3rd in Baton Rouge. Kelly says NIL deals and revenue sharing won’t change how he recruits, in fact he’s looking to hire a salary cap manager to handle player NIL evaluations…

Cut 12 (12) “…I do.”

LSU flipped three-star South Carolina commit Jaiden Braker. The South Gwinnett linebacker has been pledged to the Gamecocks since July 6 but now joins the Tigers’ star-studded 2025 class following a visit to LSU’s Bayou Splash event. Braker is the No. 74 ranked linebacker in the class and helps LSU’s 19 commits to the third -ranked spot in the country.

Former LSU swimmer Brooks Curry won silver in Paris as part of Team USA’s 4×200-meter freestyle relay team. It becomes the second Olympic medal of Curry’s career after winning gold in the same event in Tokyo three years ago.

Saints training camp is in full swing and new addition defensive end Chase Young has been dominant after making his return from a neck injury. The 2020 second-overall pick says the Saints have a strong group of pass rushers…

Cut 19 (15) “…real good group.”

Wide receiver Chris Olave returned today after leaving yesterday’s practice early with a hip injury. Cornerback Marshon Lattimore watched from the sidelines as he remains out with an injured hip flexor. Defensive tackle Bryan Bresee and tight end Juwon Johnson were seen doing individual work off to the side.

Team USA earned their second Olympic victory in a 103-86 win over South Sudan behind an 18-point performance from Bam Adebayo off the bench and a strong team defensive effort.

The US women’s national soccer team secured a 2-1 win over Australia to secure first place in group B and advance to the Olympic quarterfinals against Japan.

4:45 LRN Sportscast

LSU quarterback Garrett Nussmeier and wide receiver Kyren Lacy were named to the Maxwell Award preseason watch list. The Maxwell Award is given each year to the most outstanding player in college football. The new Tigers starting quarterback and his expected number one target are 2 of the 80 players on the watch list.

The Saints put on the pads for the first time at training camp today in Irvine, California today.  One of the early standouts of camp has been veteran linebacker Willie Gay who won a Super Bowl with the Chiefs last season. Gay has had to learn a new defensive scheme but says camp comes down to the basics…

Cut 19 (19 ) “…over again.”

Defensive end Chase Young participated in the team portion of practice for the first time today as he makes his return from a neck injury.

One of the questions heading into the season is the role the versatile Taysom Hill will play in new offensive coordinator Klint Kubiak’s offense. Hill admits it’s tough even for him to tell until you get to game week…

Cut 20 (23) “…look like.” 

A pair of former LSU stars will face off tonight as the Pirates visit the Astros. Houston’s Alex Bregman is batting .254 on the season with 14 homers and 51 RBI. He’ll try to get the better of Pirates rookie sensation Paul Skenes. Skenes has a 1.93 ERA with 97 strikeouts.

The Pelicans signed center Trey Jemison off waivers over the weekend. Jemison spent last season with the Wizards and Grizzlies where he averaged nearly 7 points and 5 rebounds in 25 games.

11:40 LRN Sportscast

Saints training camp continues in Irvine, California. 32-year-old safety Tyrann Mathieu signed a two-year extension this offseason. Despite entering his 12th NFL season, the St. Augustine and LSU star remains one of the league’s top safeties. Mathieu says his goal is to bring a Super Bowl to his hometown…

Cut 18 (22) “…let it loose.”

Two former LSU stars will face off tonight as the Pirates visit the Astros. Houston’s Alex Bregman is batting .254 on the season with 14 homers and 51 RBI. He’ll try to get the better of Pirates rookie sensation Paul Skenes. Skenes has a 1.93 ERA with 97 strikeouts this season posting at least 7 K’s in 11 of his 12 starts this year. First pitch is set for 7:10.

A few Louisiana stars were named FCS Preseason All-Americans. McNeese redshirt junior linebacker Micah Davey joins Nicholls senior defensive back Tyler Morton on the first-team defense. Nicholls senior offensive lineman Evan Roussel headlines the second-team offense for the Colonels. Nicholls Junior Jaylon Spears earned the second-team All Purpose spot.

Former LSU Beach Volleyball stars Taryn Kloth and Kristen Nuss will return to action today at 3:00 against Australia. They won their last match against the Canadians 2 sets to none. The Australian duo is the only other undefeated team left in the four-team pool after winning their first match against China 2-1. Today’s winner will take sole possession of first with one match remaining. The top two finishers at the conclusion of pool play will earn a guaranteed spot in the knockout rounds.

The US currently leads the Olympic medal race with 12 total, but their 3 golds rank 5th at the games.