Funny, you know... all the disadvantages listed to BB squat is why I do it. All the reasons listed for leg press advantages are exactly why I don't do them. (Except when I tore my deltoid and I couldn't hold the bar up on squat. Leg press was the only way I could get heavy leg work done.)
You may not be able to do a lot on squat at first because of your back, but that's exactly why you do it. Spinal erectors and core are extremely important in most sports. I don't plan on going over hurdles with an arched back or hurting my back from the reactive energy from a long jump just because my spinal erectors can't hold me together because they're so weak compared to my legs. There's a reason most people my age have at least minor forms of scoliosis. Spinal erectors are some of the weakest muscles in normal people. (Normal being the lazy, desk tied type.) In reality they should be some of the strongest. Especially if you plan on doing any strenuous sports. You can't neglect certain muscle groups. Your body becomes imbalanced and prone to injury, especially in high stress movements like jumps.
