On Thursday, LSU confirmed that its season opener against North Texas this weekend would go off as planned. A short time later, the Tigers confirmed one of its most productive offensive weapons in 2011 would be in tow to start the 2012 season as well.
Head coach Les Miles announced this evening that running back Michael Ford has been cleared to play and will be on the field when the Tigers take on the Mean Green Saturday night in Baton Rouge. Ford and linebacker Tahj Jones have been dealing with eligibility issues involving academics that put their availability in doubt for the opener and beyond.
As of tonight, Jones’ status has yet to be resolved, and it’s unclear if it will be resolved one way or the other prior to kickoff..
As a junior last season, Ford led LSU with 756 yards rushing while also adding seven touchdowns on the ground. While his absence for any period of time, given the depth LSU possesses at the position, wouldn’t have been detrimental, his presence will do nothing but help a Tiger squad breaking in a first-year starter under center.