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Who starts at quarterback and other questions about Louisiana Ragin' Cajuns football

Dec 18, 2021; New Orleans, LA, USA; Louisiana-Lafayette Ragin Cajuns quarterback Chandler Fields (16) passes the ball during warmups against Marshall Thundering Herd before the 2021 New Orleans Bowl at Caesars Superdome. Mandatory Credit: Stephen Lew-USA TODAY Sports

Louisiana football conducted its final scrimmage of the preseason Saturday and all eyes were on the quarterback battle between Chandler Fields and Ben Wooldridge.

Both performed solidly with plenty of good work as well as a couple of less-than-ideal moments. UL coach Michael Desormeaux said following the scrimmage he knows who will be the starting quarterback. But that information will be relayed to those outside the program at a later date.

And naturally, the QB competition takes center stage again in this week’s Louisiana football mailbag.

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UL football recruiting: Neville's three-star edge Matthew Fobbs-White commits to UL football over Baylor, TCU

Who do you think will start at quarterback for Louisiana in the first game of the season? – George H.

From my vantage point, nothing was settled specifically as a result of the final scrimmage. I think Desormeaux already had his mind made up before Saturday, he just needed one last practice to seal things.

This is purely from me, but I have a hunch Fields has won the starting job and will be the starter for the season opener against Southeastern Louisiana.

Here’s why I think Fields is the choice. Fields has a stronger arm with more zip and it fits what UL’s offense will look like this year with quick reads and out, getting the ball in space as fast as possible. Fields is also confident and does not hesitate to try and make a play. I believe Desormeaux relates to that as he played that way in college.

I could be wrong, but my money is on Fields to be starting QB.

When will the renovations at Cajun Field begin? – Tim B.

From the conversations I’ve had recently, the timeline has not changed for the start of the renovations Cajun Field. As close to the New Year as possible continues to be the goal for the new west side tower, new suites and press box but with price increases in materials and labor for the construction it could hinder when things get going.

Prices and financing rising will be what to watch moving forward but UL still hopes to have the renovations completed and ready by the start of the 2023 season.

How is the offensive line coming together? – Damian G.

In a word? Tremendously.

I firmly believe the Cajuns are going to be just fine up front. The play of Nathan Thomas at left tackle, A.J. Gillie at left guard, David Hudson at center, George Jackson at right guard and Carlos Rubio at right tackle has been seamless and effective during preseason practice.

UL has depth up front, too, with Michigan State transfer James Ohonba, Kaden Moreau and Quinton Williams as other players the coaching staff feels strong about.

What should fans expect out of the Matthew Fobbs-White, the commit from Neville? – Caleb W.

Anytime a team lands a player from Neville, you know you’re getting a good player.

Fobbs-White already fits the physical mold of what UL looks for in an edge rusher with length and room to build at 6-foot-3, 235 pounds. He likely won’t be asked to immediately contribute as a freshman but his upside is something the defensive coaches are excited about.

Cory Diaz covers the LSU Tigers and Louisiana Ragin’ Cajuns for The Daily Advertiser as part of the USA TODAY Network. Follow his Tigers and Cajuns coverage on Twitter: @ByCoryDiaz. Got questions regarding LSU/UL athletics? Send them to Cory Diaz at bdiaz@gannett.com.

This article originally appeared on Lafayette Daily Advertiser: Louisiana football mailbag: Who starts at QB, Cajun Field renovations