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Mettenberger has an arm that can make almost any throw. It was on display during a 53-yard touchdown pass to Odell Beckham Jr. in the 38-22 win over Towson. But Mettenberger's lack of mobility was also on display last Saturday He fumbled for the second time in as many games, trying to escape out of the pocket as the pressure was bearing down on him.
Miles said that's not what they want to see.
"The things that he tries to do by extending the play put him in jeopardy," Miles said. "In some days you see those quarterbacks that run out of the pocket and make a big play. That frankly is not something we are looking for from him. We're really not looking to extend the play much. We would like to get it out of his hands. We are coaching that."
Other than that constructive criticism, Miles is very complimentary of Mettenberger.
"I like Zach, and I think his effort and energy is good for this team," Miles said. "I think he'll continue to improve. Just remember that he has not really started in major college football before."
Miles also admitted that LSU has yet to use all of the plays in their playbook. The coach says there's been no need to go deep in the playbook, because LSU has been in control in most of the games they've played in this year.
But LSU will face its first ranked opponent this Saturday when they face the Florida Gators. Former LSU defensive coordinator Will Muschamp is 4-and-0 in his second season in Gainesville.
The Gators are third in the Southeastern Conference in rushing offense, senior Mike Gillislee is averaging 100-yards a game. On defense, Florida is fourth in the SEC in total defense and they have not allowed a point in the fourth quarter and only 13 for the 2nd half all season.
LSU will not have starting fullback J.C. Copeland, who hurt his leg in the Towson game. But his injury doesn't appear to be season ending. Miles said expect Connor Neighbors to get a lot of snaps at fullback. The head coach also expects left tackle Josh Dworaczyk to play after missing the Towson game with a knee injury.
Photo by Steve Franz- LSU Athletics
Photo by Steve Franz- LSU Athletics
