Leonard Fournette returned to practice in full, per Les Miles

Miles on quarterbacks, Maea Teuhema and throwback uniforms

By JAMES MORAN
Tiger Rag Associate Editor

Buga is back.

All-American tailback Leonard Fournette practiced in full Wednesday and is expected to play in Saturday’s SEC opener against Mississippi State, LSU coach Les Miles confirmed at his post-practice presser Wednesday night.

Miles said earlier in the day on the SEC Coaches Teleconference that Fournette, who missed the Jacksonville State game due to an ankle bruise, was nearly 100 percent healthy. The bruise was to the same ankle Fournette sprained during fall camp.

“Full practice today,” Miles said of his star. “Had a nice practice. I’d guess (he’s) full speed ahead.”

Miles, though again stopping short of an official declaration, again confirmed he plans on starting Danny Etling at quarterback against the Bulldogs.

“We’re going to watch and let things unfold,” Miles said, echoing a sentiment he voiced on the Teleconference, “but I would guess Danny would take the first snap.”

Here’s other news and notes from Miles’ post-practice presser:

– Maea Teuhema, who started at right guard in place of the suspended Josh Boutte last week, has worked at both guard and tackle this week, Miles said. Asked if the sophomore would start this week, Miles only clarified that Teuhema would either start or be the rotating sixth offensive lineman.

– Outside linebacker Corey Thompson, who suffered a lower leg injury during fall camp, hasn’t returned to practice yet, Miles said. His return will likely come “in the back end of the year,” Miles said.

– Miles was asked about how wideout Malachi Dupre has responded to struggling in the first two games: “He’s practicing hard. He looks good. He’s doing things he should be doing.”

– Miles on LSU wearing throwback “Gridiron Gold” uniforms on Saturday: “Y.A. Tittle wore those uniforms. It’s an opportunity to go back in time and wear an old combination.”