Miles likes LSU backfield combos

• By CARL DUBOIS
• Advocate sportswriter
• Published: Aug 7, 2008 - Page: 1C - UPDATED: 12:05 a.m.

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When LSU football coach Les Miles approaches the position of running back by committee, the committee meetings don’t always have the same seating chart.

During a segment of the Wednesday morning practice, the backfield was Jarrett Lee at quarterback, Quinn Johnson at fullback and Keiland Williams at tailback. The next set: Andrew Hatch at quarterback, Charles Scott at fullback and Richard Murphy at tailback.

Scott’s presence at fullback created a bit of a stir among reporters during the brief time they were allowed to watch practice. Coaches paid attention too.

“Charles has had a great summer,” Miles said, “and you can just tell that he’s looking forward to getting the ball and having a great fall.”

Miles seemed to relish the idea of different combinations in the backfield.

“We’re looking for the right mix,” he said, alluding to the use of Jacob Hester at fullback in certain situations even after Hester’s promotion to starting tailback a year ago. “Certainly, he gave us a dimension there that we needed,” Miles said of Hester, now a rookie with the San Diego Chargers.

Scott has similar characteristics, Miles said.

“Both block and receive as well as carry the ball,” he said, “so we’re looking to see what we have and how to use them.”

Miles said LSU running backs appear to be able to catch the ball and all have “quality hands” out of the backfield.

He said freshman tight end Tyler Edwards looks good lining up at fullback.

“He’s going to be everything you want in a blocker and receiver,” said Miles, who noted Edwards has taken some handoffs. “He may be tough enough to run it. We’re excited about him.”

Miles said Edwards will learn the role of fullback and split time at tight end as well.

“He’s had a good quality start to his camp,” Miles said. “He may get a chance to play as a true freshman.”