By BUD JOHNSON

What a difference a year makes.

Last fall, Vacherie native Corey Webster watched helplessly as the University of Florida Gators destroyed his LSU Tigers, 44-15, in Tiger Stadium. He was a backup wide receiver then and all he could do was watch in horror.

In a gridiron twist of fate, Webster keyed an early ambush of the favored Gators Saturday in Gainesville. He intercepted two passes in the first quarter to help the Tigers jump on top, 13-0. His first interception set up a 37-yard field Tiger goal. Corey took the second pick back 45-yards for a touchdown, sending LSU out front, 10-0.

The nickel-back in LSU’s secondary, Corey may be the hottest defensive back in the SEC at present. Webster added a third interception in the fourth quarter at Florida to tie a school record for most interceptions in a game. LSU’s one-sided win (36-7) over the Gators was triggered largely by the aggressive Tigers defense. The attacking defense unsettled Gator quarterback Rex Grossman, architect of last year’s runaway win in Baton Rouge.

Webster, appears to be enjoying his new position in the LSU secondary, especially since the Tiger defensive unit ranks No.1 in the nation. The junior was a quarterback at St. James High School under coach Rick Gaille.

“He has had a remarkable couple of games as a defensive back,” Gaille said. “His knowledge of offense – as a former high school quarterback and as a receiver at LSU for two years – has helped him understand what the opposing quarterback is trying to accomplish. That knowledge serves him well as a defensive back.

“Opposing teams will have to be more aware of him and not throw near him. I think he should be starting.”

While Webster was recruited for his offensive skills, LSU head coach Nick Saban liked his quick hands and quick feet and moved him to the defensive secondary in the spring to help strengthen the defense.

In news about other local college players, wide receiver Chris Bush of LaPlace will attempt Saturday to help Tulane University win its third conference game.

The Green Wave’s passing game has sorely missed the athletic ability of Roydell Williams of LaPlace, who sustained a season-ending injury in the third game.

Chris and Kenneth Johnson of Gramercy, will try to revive the University of Southern Mississippi’s offense after a loss to South Florida last week. The two wide receivers, first cousins, starred at Lutcher High under coach Tim Detillier.