LSU defensive tackle Bernard Gooden has gained notice in recent practices, not only for creating disruption on the line but also for employing a particular method to unsettle quarterback Garrett Nussmeier. Head coach Brian Kelly and the Tigers resumed fall camp Monday morning in Baton Rouge for Day 10, launching Week 3 after a productive second week.
With the pace intensifying for both offense and defense, Gooden’s approach has become a talking point as LSU’s preparation continues. Monday’s session reflected the heightened competition as the team pushed through another demanding day on the practice field.
LSU’s Bernard Gooden Shares the Trick He Uses on QB Garrett Nussmeier
During LSU’s August camp, defensive tackle Gooden has turned heads. Gooden admitted that part of his game involves getting into the heads of those across from him, even in practice.
“You know, just football talk,” Gooden said. “You know, some things that we talk about, you know, just getting at another guy, trying to get in his head, throw him off his gun, you know, just a couple of friendly words.”
Gooden described himself as a vocal player who thrives when he is fully engaged with opponents, even if they are his own teammates.
“I feel like I get better as I trash-talk,” he said.
That energy has been on display throughout camp, with coaches and teammates noting his constant motor and unrelenting style of play. His competitive edge is part of a larger mentality.
“I don’t want a guy to touch me regardless of what I’m doing, whether it’s run, you know, put my hands out, pass, I don’t just want to touch me like he ain’t going to touch me,” Gooden explained.
He credits his quick get-off and strong second step for making it difficult for offensive linemen to handle him. Gooden has embraced LSU’s culture and says the defensive line group has welcomed him seamlessly.
“Everybody treats everybody like family. So they took me right in and I just came comfortable,” he said.
That camaraderie extends to practice battles with the offensive line, where he said he intentionally seeks out tough matchups to make both sides better.
“From the guard and the center, I’m always trying to go at them guys because we’re making each other better at the end of the day.”
Playing under defensive line coach Kyle Williams has been another key factor in his development.
“That’s definitely somebody you want to soak up the most knowledge from,” Gooden said. “It’s definitely a blessing.”
His friendly verbal jabs at Nussmeier are part of the process, designed to prepare both for the real opponents who await in the fall.