Chevis Jackson

Bio

Chevis Jackson might not be as flashy as some defensive backs -- or even LSU defenders on the defensive front wall -- but he was the main reason the secondary ranked among the nation's best in each of his three seasons as a starter.

With Jackson playing the shutdown cornerback role, the Tigers ranked third in the nation in total defense in those three seasons, allowing 288.79 yards per game in 2007, 242.77 yards in 2006 and 266.85 yards in 2005. In his senior season, opposing quarterbacks completed only 25.61% of the passes thrown into Jackson's area (21-of-82), and Jackson held the opposition to a miniscule 2.8 yards per pass attempt.

Jackson saw limited duty in 10 games as a true freshman at Louisiana State in 2004, finishing with five tackles (two solo) and three pass deflections. He took over right cornerback duties as a sophomore, going on to start his next 40 games at that position. He ranked eighth on the team with 47 tackles (34 solo), assisting on a sack while posting 3.5 stops for losses and a QB pressure. He also had an interception, three pass breakups, a fumble recovery and a forced fumble.

Jackson stepped into a leadership role the following season. The junior started all 13 games in 2006, collecting 46 tackles (33 solo), 1.5 stops behind the line of scrimmage and 14 pass deflections. He intercepted two passes and gained 100 yards on 15 punt returns.

As a senior, Jackson batted away 16 passes and intercepted five more to earn first-team All-Southeastern Conference honors. He delivered three stops for losses among his 44 tackles (34 solo).

In 50 games at Louisiana State, Jackson started 40 games. He registered 142 tackles (103 solo) with an assisted sack for minus-3 yards and eight stops for losses of 25 yards. He caused and recovered a fumble and also averaged 6.7 yards on 15 punt returns. He broke up 36 passes and intercepted eight others for 62 yards in returns (7.8-yard average).