A New Tradition

I like this. 

Junior tight end Richard Dickson said the fact that he’s switched to No. 18 this season is part of a new tradition among the Tigers.

Dickson said former LSU running back Jacob Hester, who wore No. 18 last year, asked Dickson to make the switch this year from the No. 82 he wore last season.

Turns out, former LSU quarterback Matt Mauck bequeathed the number to Hester when Jacob became a Tiger.

"Hopefully it’ll become a tradition," said Dickson, who said he doesn’t have his eye on any potential No. 18s out there. "Hopefully I can fill Jacob’s shoes."

Anytime players take it on themselves to create a tradition or do something to instill pride in the program, it is a major plus. I hope Dickson has a fantastic year and lives up to the leadership that both Mauck and Hester provided. I hope he then passes on the No. 18 to someone else, someone who will feel like he isn't playing just for himself anymore, but also for the guys who set the bar before him and the letters on his helmet. The number itself becomes something the players refuse to let down, and in turn, they lead their teammates down the same path.

Kudos Matt, Jacob and Richard.