Tigers open spring Football

Friday's workout, held in helmets and shorts, had the Tigers dodging rain showers on a windy and cloudy down here on the LSU campus. Still, LSU head coach Les Miles liked what he saw on the first day of spring drills. 

"There was a lot enthusiasm with different players and their personalities coming forward," Miles said. "I think it was a very productive first day. There was a great deal of enthusiasm and enjoyment in getting back on the field.

"Anytime you end a season when you didn't finish the last game the way you liked, frankly you look forward to getting that feeling behind you. So, the next time that you take the field, it's as good a feeling for you as there is."

It also marked the first practice of newly hired assistant coaches in defensive backs coach Corey Raymond and wide receivers coach Adam Henry.

"I like both of those guys," Miles said. "Both expect a lot from their players; they are demanding and they are technically proficient. Our players have received them both very well. I think they are great additions to the staff."

Miles also complimented the performance of junior Zach Mettenberger, who is expected to take over as the starting quarterback for the Tigers in 2012. Mettenberger took the majority of the snaps with the first offense with Stephen Rivers and Jerrard Randall also getting reps at the position.

"(Zach) just needs reps," Miles said. "He looked sharp today. We only have a thumbnail of our offense in at this point so there's a lot to learn, but it was a nice first day. There were a lot of positives."

The Tigers will practice again on Saturday followed by four practices next week.

LSU will conclude spring drills with the National L-Club Spring Game in Tiger Stadium on March 31. LSU will honor its 2011 SEC Championship team with a pre-game celebration in Tiger Stadium starting at 12:30 p.m. on March 31. Admission to the spring game will be free.