Today was cut down day in the NFL as teams had to get their rosters down to 53. Last year’s punter Lou Hedley was released, so unless the Black and Gold sign someone else, undrafted free agent Matt Hayball will be the punter.

Charlie Smith was also released. But the kicker from Ireland could land on the practice squad. Safety Johnathan Abram was also let go, but could also end up on the practice squad. Former Ragin Cajuns running back Jacob Kibodi was released, despite scoring two touchdowns in the preseason finale.

Running back Kendre Miller will start the season on injured reserve. Miller injured his hamstring on the first day of training camp and has not been able to return to the practice field. The third round pick in 2023 also suffered through an injury plagued rookie season.

Rookie receiver Mason Tipton made the team despite missing a lot of the preseason with an injury. Tipton looked good at the start of camp.

LSU is getting ready to face a pass-heavy USC team so it will be a big test for a Tigers defense that ranked 105th in the country in total defense last year. Coach Brian Kelly has confidence his front seven can get the job done…

cut 20 (16) “….going to be fine”

USC is starting Miller Moss at quarterback. He threw for a bowl record six touchdown passes and 372 yards versus Louisville in last year’s Holiday Bowl.

Around the NFL, the Carolina Panthers released former LSU receiver Terrace Marshall of Bossier City. Marshall was on the 2019 national championship team, but last year for the Panthers only caught 19 passes after averaging nearly 18 yards a reception in 2022.