ESPN.com · Sep 6, 2023
LSU star Maason Smith set for season debut vs. Grambling
LSU star defensive tackle Maason Smith is expected to play his first game in more than a year Saturday against Grambling.
LSU coach Brian Kelly said Wednesday that the goal is for Smith to play around 30 snaps in the Tigers' home opener.
Smith, who was named to the Freshman All-SEC team in 2021, has been working his way back from a season-ending knee injury he suffered during last year's Week 1 game against Florida State. He was suspended for last Saturday's season-opener against the Seminoles after the NCAA determined he received an improper benefit, according to The (Baton Rouge) Advocate.
LSU lost to Florida State 45-24 in Orlando and dropped from No. 5 to 14 in the Associated Press Poll.