NEW ORLEANS (WVUE) – In this segment of FFF: LSU dominates in football recruiting, the United States Women’s National Team faces another setback, and a visit to Hammond for a cheeseburger.
LSU concluded the 2024 recruiting cycle with the fourth-ranked class in the nation. This feat included securing the top recruit in the state, Dominick McKinley, a defensive lineman from Acadiana.
Heading into the 2025 class, the Tigers are leading the pack. According to On3, LSU holds the top spot in the country.
Among the standout recruits are Bryce Underwood, the nation’s top quarterback, Dakorien Moore, the top wide receiver, and Harlem Berry, the top-ranked running back.
Keylan Moses, a crucial commitment, adds depth as a linebacker from U-High. Despite his brother’s choice to attend Alabama, Moses has opted to stay in Louisiana. He has actively contributed to recruiting efforts for this outstanding class.
With coaches Frank Wilson, Corey Raymond, Bo and Brad Davis, and Moses playing a role, LSU is expected to secure the best recruits from within the state.
While the transfer portal can be beneficial, focusing on recruiting is vital for LSU’s championship aspirations.
The era of the United States Women’s National Team reigning as a dominant force globally has come to an end.
It commenced with a bronze medal in the 2021 Olympics.
Last summer’s World Cup further highlighted the decline, as the U.S.A. suffered elimination in the round of 16 at the hands of Sweden, losing in a penalty shootout.
Notably, no previous U.S. team had ever finished lower than third place at a World Cup.
Historically, one certainty for the national team was their ability to outclass Mexico. Over the past 16 matches, they had defeated their southern neighbors by an aggregate score of 65-4.
However, recent events have signaled a shift. In the Concacaf Women’s Gold Cup, the U.S. succumbed to Mexico with a 2-0 defeat.
While it’s premature to assert that the team has hit rock bottom, these are undoubtedly challenging times for the Stars and Stripes.
The global landscape of women’s soccer is evolving, and the U.S. appears to be regressing in comparison.
Last Saturday, while in Hammond, Louisiana, I provided play-by-play commentary for the soccer state championship on LHSAA Network TV. Being in Hammond, a visit to The Mariner’s Inn was essential.
With the weather being perfect, opting to sit outside was an obvious choice. And of course, ordering the cheeseburger was a given. I requested the cheddar to be melted on the meat, and it was absolutely delightful.
For this visit, I decided to accompany the burger with fries, although locals recommended trying the baked potato or onion rings.
Venturing indoors, I was struck by the fantastic atmosphere, especially for a mid-afternoon visit. There was a live band playing, and the drinks were flowing.
Furthermore, I couldn’t help but notice the charm of downtown Hammond, especially by the train tracks. It’s definitely worth exploring during your next trip to Hammond, Louisiana.
