LSU DC Blake Baker counts Patrick Mahomes and 2023 Heisman trophy winner Jayden Daniels in the “toughest to defend” list

Blake Baker returned to LSU as the new defensive coordinator after the conclusion of the 2023 college football season. Following his tenure as the Tigers’ linebacker coach in 2021, he was hired as Missouri's defensive coordinator before returning to Baton Rouge this offseason.

In his appearance on the latest installment of The Jordy Culotta Show, Baker discussed his return To LSU, coaching experience and preparation for next season. He mentioned Kansas City Chiefs' Patrick Mahomes and LSU's 2023 Heisman Trophy winner Jayden Daniels as the toughest quarterbacks he's ever defended.

“I told him [Jayden Daniels], I said ‘Man, you and Patrick Mahomes are 1A and 1B as far as toughest guys I've ever had to defend,’” Baker said.

“He's a special talent. He changes the way you have to defend the entire field and the way you have to attack him in your pass-rush lanes, trying to play the run with a lightbox. He was dynamic in both run and pass.”

Blake Baker explains his decision to return to LSU

Blake Baker was Brian Kelly’s first choice to replace the fired Matt House as LSU’s defensive coordinator.

He was hired three days after the announcement of House’s dismissal. Baker described what the 72 hours looked like on The Jordy Culotta Show and how he decided to return to Baton Rouge.

“It was an emotionally charged 72 hours. Coach Kelly called and offered me the job," Baker said. … "He had 72 hours of contact period and he was coming to the house and making it tough but at the end of the day, we felt like this was the right decision for our family and the timing and everything. I'm excited to be back for sure."

Blake Baker talks about LSU's brand power

LSU is undoubtedly one of the most iconic programs in college football. The team's brand power is one of the most captivating in the landscape and this played a role in the return of Blake Baker.

“I always knew about the power of the brand but being here in 2021, that was one of the big tipping points with me deciding to come back was I know the power of the brand and like you said, it's as strong as ever. Those three letters and those two colors resonate all over the world,” Baker said.

With the expanded College Football Playoff, the Tigers hope to challenge for the national title again in the upcoming season. Baker’s defense will play a crucial role in this, which is why he was brought in.