Dennis Dodd's thoughts about Les
Bleacher Report article on Miles
You have to look at the source when reading these articles. The writer in the Bleacher Report refers to the SEC as the "South Eastern Conference." Are you kidding? Some guy who doesn't know that the proper name of the SEC is the Southeastern Conference is going to then state that Miles is gone after 8-4? I notice he failed to mention the $14-$15 million buy out. Who is going to pay that?
Furthermore, Burton says, "in typical Les Miles fashion, he may continue to lose one he shouldn't..." Miles has been at LSU for five years, outside of the loss to Arkansas in 2008, where are these "typical losses?" Please readers, tell me where LSU was heavily favored and lost a game the experts picked them to win.
I accept that Miles has his short comings and they cost LSU the Ole Miss game. I also accept that some people want Miles gone, even if he were to win the SEC Title. I just think any discussion should be based on facts and reality, not some wild notion that LSU is one of the elites of college football where anything less than 10 wins a year is a failure. LSU has NEVER been that school and with the SEC as deep as it is, may NEVER be that school in the future.
Tuesday, July 27, 2010
Saturday, July 24, 2010
Tuesday, July 20, 2010
"Truths" & "Myths" cont.
Yesterday I addressed the question of Jefferson's efficiency during the 2009 season. There were some legitimate observations posted on the comments that got me thinking. Given Jefferson's solid numbers, why wasn't he more effective? I looked at more 2009 stats, specifically, the TOTAL plays from the SEC's top QB's and came away with some interesting numbers. Again, only conference games are referenced.
(All stats courtesy of cfbstats.com)
In all fairness to his detractors, when the sacks and rushing attempts are factored in, Jefferson's yards per play average is relatively poor compared to the other top SEC quarterbacks. For LSU to thrive, he must be more productive with the ball in his hands in 2010.
Thanks for reading and the feedback.
| Player | School | Plays | Yards/Play |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jefferson | LSU | 293 | 5.3 |
| Tebow | Florida | 360 | 6.0 |
| McElroy | Alabama | 266 | 6.7 |
| Mallet | Arkansas | 316 | 6.8 |
| Todd | Auburn | 227 | 5.3 |
| Cox | Georgia | 239 | 7.4 |
| Garcia | South Carolina | 380 | 5.7 |
(All stats courtesy of cfbstats.com)
In all fairness to his detractors, when the sacks and rushing attempts are factored in, Jefferson's yards per play average is relatively poor compared to the other top SEC quarterbacks. For LSU to thrive, he must be more productive with the ball in his hands in 2010.
Thanks for reading and the feedback.
Monday, July 19, 2010
Welcome Back
September 4, 2010 is still six weeks away, but college football season is rapidly approaching. I’ll share my thoughts on the upcoming season as we go along, but in the interim, I will post a few nuggets and other (hopefully) interesting stuff.
For a stats junkie like me, it doesn’t get any better than this College Football Stats page. Just like reading a horse racing form, I am hoping to pore through all of the data to discover some underlying truths to help explain prior results and also to debunk some commonly held assumptions and conclusions that just don’t hold up under scrutiny. Here are three “myths” and “truths” that bare a closer look under the stats microscope. All of the stats reference conference games only.
1. LSU’s defense was on the field way too much. This “bend but don’t break philosophy doesn’t work.”
Now I will agree that at times it seemed the defense was always on the field, but the stats create an interesting picture. LSU’s defense was on the field for 545 plays in 2009, 4th most in the conference. Would you believe that Alabama’s vaunted defense had 560 plays, 2nd most in the SEC? LSU’s defense was only on the field two plays more per game than Florida. Furthermore, LSU gave up only 4.8 yards per play, ranking 3rd. Alabama and Florida led the conference at 4.5 yards per play.
2. Jordan Jefferson is the problem on offense.
Compare these four QB’s:
- QB “A” – Comp % 54, TD’s 14, INT’s 7, Rating 118.39
- QB “B” – Comp % 58, TD’s 11, INT’s 8, Rating 128.48
- QB “C” – Comp % 52, TD’s 11, INT’s 8, Rating 118.42
- QB “D” – Comp % 62, TD’s 9, INT’s 4, Rating 130.65
Quarterback A was a 5th year senior and won a National Championship that season. Quarterback B was a redshirt sophomore who eventually went on to become the #1 pick in the 2007 NFL Draft. Quarterback C was a true sophomore who eventually went on to be the #1 pick in the 2009 NFL Draft. Quarterback D will be starting for LSU against UNC on September 4th. We are talking about Matt Flynn, JaMarcus Russell, Matthew Stafford and Jordan Jefferson.
At this point in their careers, Jefferson stacks up very well. He has a better rating and the fewest turnovers. Furthermore, 2009 saw the worst offensive line in the past decade at LSU. Jefferson absolutely needs to improve, but let us place blame where it belongs, on the large shoulders on the O-line.
3. Winning the “turnover battle” is just coach speak.
The last three SEC Champs have all finished first in the league in turnover margin. Since 2004, the lowest turnover margin by the eventual champion was the 2004 Auburn team that went undefeated. The Tigers finished at +1, ranked 5th in the conference.
Thanks to cfbstats.com for all of the data. Priceless.
Thursday, May 27, 2010
Do College Players Really Get Cut?
Interesting article from oversigning.com on schools that "oversign" players each year. Schools are limited to 85 scholarship players at the start of each season which ultimately forces players to leave the team before their eligibility expires. You will never hear a coach say a player was "cut," but that is exactly what is going on. (Click here for more)
Tuesday, January 05, 2010
I love mail!
Prowler
The people aren't upset Miles can't coach.They're upset that a fairly incompetent coach make more in a year than they do in a lifetime.There are quite a few below average to average coaches in the collegiuate ranks. The people are pissed because while they bust their hump for 25-35k a year, spend a 5th of their salary on ridiculously priced season tickets, and this assclown is netting 4 mil to put out a subpar product. When you make 4 mil, you can't let clocks run out or throw a middle-in with no time left and--suprise suprise--no timeouts left. He's a bad coach and worth about 60k...max. LSU overpayed, and everyone knows it. That's why they're mad. And ask yourself what exactly was enjoyable about this season? Very little. You talk about the combined points for LSU's 4 losses. What about their wins. [emphasis added by me]
UW-Close
MSU-Squeaker
UGA- last second
Ark-OT
This season was a waste. We'll see what happens with season tickets this year.
You keep the faith.
Anonymous
AH!!
Jealousy! That explains a lot. Here is this guy who makes tons of money that the average person will never make. He makes so much money and therefore he should be held to a higher standard. You know why he gets paid so much? Because “assclowns” (such as yourself? Just kidding, you didn’t leave your name so I have no idea who you are.) pay a ridiculous amount of money to go watch a bunch of 18-22 year olds run around and crash into each other.
My entire point is this: The delusional behavior where fans wrap their OWN self worth into LSU football is understandable on some level but ultimately misguided. I honestly feel sorry for these people whose lives are so empty that firing the head coach of LSU’s football team is the only thing that would get them motivated enough to “write a letter to the editor.” Who is the real dummy? The guy making 4 million a year or the guy who gives his hard earned money to the LSU football program so LSU can spend $20K on gold helmets for a “one time alternate uniform?”
As for this season, was I frustrated at times? Absolutely! Did I get upset about LSU’s struggles? You bet. But I’m a “just win baby!” type of guy. That is all I care about, winning the damn game. When I look at the Troy game last year, I see the greatest comeback in LSU history. When I look at the wins over Arkansas and Georgia this season, fantastic drama!
If you are so unhappy with a 9-4 season, why do you even watch? If you cannot find anything to enjoy about winning 9 games, I ask again, why do you even bother?
I sat through 6 losing seasons from 1989 to 1994. I sat through the entire 58-3 beat down Florida laid on LSU in 1993. I didn’t leave. I don’t expect everyone to agree with me. I don’t expect everyone understand the type of pressure and adversity I face on a daily basis which colors my personal perspective of LSU football. But I will never understand nor embrace the irrational negativity or the myopia of LSU fans.
Thanks for reading and responding.
Prowler
The people aren't upset Miles can't coach.They're upset that a fairly incompetent coach make more in a year than they do in a lifetime.There are quite a few below average to average coaches in the collegiuate ranks. The people are pissed because while they bust their hump for 25-35k a year, spend a 5th of their salary on ridiculously priced season tickets, and this assclown is netting 4 mil to put out a subpar product. When you make 4 mil, you can't let clocks run out or throw a middle-in with no time left and--suprise suprise--no timeouts left. He's a bad coach and worth about 60k...max. LSU overpayed, and everyone knows it. That's why they're mad. And ask yourself what exactly was enjoyable about this season? Very little. You talk about the combined points for LSU's 4 losses. What about their wins. [emphasis added by me]
UW-Close
MSU-Squeaker
UGA- last second
Ark-OT
This season was a waste. We'll see what happens with season tickets this year.
You keep the faith.
Anonymous
AH!!
Jealousy! That explains a lot. Here is this guy who makes tons of money that the average person will never make. He makes so much money and therefore he should be held to a higher standard. You know why he gets paid so much? Because “assclowns” (such as yourself? Just kidding, you didn’t leave your name so I have no idea who you are.) pay a ridiculous amount of money to go watch a bunch of 18-22 year olds run around and crash into each other.
My entire point is this: The delusional behavior where fans wrap their OWN self worth into LSU football is understandable on some level but ultimately misguided. I honestly feel sorry for these people whose lives are so empty that firing the head coach of LSU’s football team is the only thing that would get them motivated enough to “write a letter to the editor.” Who is the real dummy? The guy making 4 million a year or the guy who gives his hard earned money to the LSU football program so LSU can spend $20K on gold helmets for a “one time alternate uniform?”
As for this season, was I frustrated at times? Absolutely! Did I get upset about LSU’s struggles? You bet. But I’m a “just win baby!” type of guy. That is all I care about, winning the damn game. When I look at the Troy game last year, I see the greatest comeback in LSU history. When I look at the wins over Arkansas and Georgia this season, fantastic drama!
If you are so unhappy with a 9-4 season, why do you even watch? If you cannot find anything to enjoy about winning 9 games, I ask again, why do you even bother?
I sat through 6 losing seasons from 1989 to 1994. I sat through the entire 58-3 beat down Florida laid on LSU in 1993. I didn’t leave. I don’t expect everyone to agree with me. I don’t expect everyone understand the type of pressure and adversity I face on a daily basis which colors my personal perspective of LSU football. But I will never understand nor embrace the irrational negativity or the myopia of LSU fans.
Thanks for reading and responding.
Prowler
Monday, January 04, 2010
2009 put to bed...
Earlier today I got an e-mail from a friend asking me if I was still on the Les Miles bandwagon. You bet I am. I look for very good things the next two seasons from Miles and the Tigers. I'll tell you why.
1. Jordan Jefferson is one of only six underclassmen that start at QB for teams ranked in the AP Top 25. SIX. The other 19 teams in the Top 25 have junior or senior QB's, many who were redshirted. Furthermore, only TWO of those six had more wins than Jefferson, Kellen Moore at Boise and Terrell Pryor at Ohio State. Moore is actually a redshirt sophomore, meaning he had the benefit of an entire year on campus before he stepped on the field. It never fails to amaze me how fans are unable to appreciate the difficulties for young QB's thrown into the fire and asked to perform immediately. Quick, name me the last QB that played in the SEC Championship in only his second year on campus.2. LSU will be better on the offensive line. There are a number of younger players that will be given an opportunity and I have faith in Miles and the staff to get this group going in the right direction. A better line means a better running game and less pressure on Jefferson to carry this team as he has been forced to do.
4. The conference will be in a transition period next season. Tebow is gone at Florida. Joe Cox at Georgia and Jonathan Crompton at Tennessee are graduating. In the West, MSU, Ole Miss and Auburn will all start new QB's. If Mallet goes pro, the Hogs will also be looking for a new starter at QB.
5. The 2010 schedule will be challenging but manageable. Tennessee, Alabama, Ole Miss and MSU all visit Tiger Stadium. Auburn, Florida, Arkansas and Vandy will be on the road.
6. This year's team is not nearly as bad as the "doom & gloom" clan would lead you to believe. LSU lost four games by a combined 23 points. The four teams LSU lost to are a combined 46-7. With better play on both sides of the ball in 2010, LSU can finish 10-2 with a possible SEC Title or BCS Bowl game birth.
7. Miles will get his mojo back. Despite stumbling the last two season, from a strictly won/loss perspective, Miles has been fantastic. Don't believe me, look HERE. I know half the fan base wants him gone, 30% aren't sure and the rest are still backing him. The funny thing is, NO MATTER WHAT HAPPENS NEXT YEAR, HALF OF THE PEOPLE WILL STILL WANT MILES GONE.
Former Texas Tech coach, Spike Dykes, was once quoted as saying the following:
"....as a coach, you lose about 10 percent of your friends every year. And that's in a good year; attrition is proportional to losing.......I never met a coach who didn't do what he thought was best to win every game. You don't win every one, of course, and you make mistakes, too. So, along the way, your personal bandwagon develops more vacancies on an annual basis (taken from the book, Spike Dykes Tales from the Texas Sidelines)."
Which leads me to...
Final observations
*The psychology and mind set of the sports fan in general and the LSU fan in particular fascinates me. While coaches have little or no impact whatsoever on their lives, fans are ready and willing to go on the record that the coach needs to be fired. Meanwhile, their elected politicians are literally raping these same fans at the state capital or in Washington D.C. Does my Senator agree with the health care reform bill which will allow the government to dictate who my doctor is? Who cares! The real question is whether the coach is going to run a pro style offense or the spread. Is my President for or against military tribunals? Irrelevant! What really matters is whether the coach can expertly manage the clock in late game situations.
*I think Oklahoma and USC are great examples this season of what can happen when you don't have experience at the QB position. Stoops and Carroll are very good coaches that were forced to play young QB's and it showed.
*Some of you may have seen THIS ARTICLE in the paper. Just to let you know, all is quiet on the home front, any taunting will result in a 5 diaper change penalty and loss of quiet time.
I like to get a little feedback so send me your predictions for next season. Plus, if you are on the 'Fire Les' bandwagon, send me who you think LSU should get and why. prowler257@aol.com
Thanks so much to everyone who reads. Without you i'm just some dude taking space up on the internet...(feel free to send in snide comments)...see you next time.
Tuesday, December 08, 2009
Love Me Some Feedback!
Mailbag:
I wish I had you for my teacher growing up. I'd have made straight A's. B for the D line? C- for coaching? Does Miles have McCarthy paying you too? 3 words: Fire. The. Assclown. LSU will never be in title discussions again until it happens. Go back and watch Ole Miss. I'd rather have Bowden!
LSU went 9-3. The Tigers had ONE player make first team All-SEC. Fault Miles in Co. for recruiting missteps, but they did OK (C-) with what they had to work with. Yeah, the Ole Miss game was a mess. But only a reactionary fool would judge an entire season on 30 seconds of one game. I guess Houston Nutt should get an F for losing to an MSU team with a losing record at the end of the season right? Florida got stomped by Bama this weekend, do we give Meyer a C+ for coaching now?
I give you the Ole Miss game…but you must give me this.
*Miles rallied the troops for Arkansas and LSU executed late to get the game into overtime and WIN THE GAME.
*Earlier this season, LSU went on the road and beat Georgia with two late clutch drives and a game sealing INT by Perry Riley.
*I could go on and on with LSU’s clutch wins over the last 5 years.
*Miles is 4-0 and about to be 5-0 in bowl games.
*Miles owns VICTORIES over Urban Meyer (twice), Bob Stoops (twice), Jim Tressell, Nick Saban, Bobby Petrino, Paul Johnson, Steve Spurrier, Frank Beamer, Mark Richt, Tommy Tuberville, Gary Pinkel, Mike Leach, Mark Mangino, Mike Stoops, Bob Toledo, Bill Snyder, and Dennis Franchione (the same Dennis Franchione that came into Tiger Stadium in 2002 and beat down Nick Saban 31-0). Not to mention a number of other coaches who are no longer employed.
*Miles is 51-14 over 5 years. Meyer, the Gold Standard for college coaches, is 56-10 over that same period, averaging a whopping 1 win per season more than Miles.
*I’m tired of this knee jerk “fire the bums” reaction by delusional LSU fans. Had you been in my class you’d have gotten a “D.” Just for the simple fact that I wouldn’t have wanted to see you again for another semester.
Three Words: GET. SOME. PERSPECTIVE.
I wish I had you for my teacher growing up. I'd have made straight A's. B for the D line? C- for coaching? Does Miles have McCarthy paying you too? 3 words: Fire. The. Assclown. LSU will never be in title discussions again until it happens. Go back and watch Ole Miss. I'd rather have Bowden!
LSU went 9-3. The Tigers had ONE player make first team All-SEC. Fault Miles in Co. for recruiting missteps, but they did OK (C-) with what they had to work with. Yeah, the Ole Miss game was a mess. But only a reactionary fool would judge an entire season on 30 seconds of one game. I guess Houston Nutt should get an F for losing to an MSU team with a losing record at the end of the season right? Florida got stomped by Bama this weekend, do we give Meyer a C+ for coaching now?
I give you the Ole Miss game…but you must give me this.
*Miles rallied the troops for Arkansas and LSU executed late to get the game into overtime and WIN THE GAME.
*Earlier this season, LSU went on the road and beat Georgia with two late clutch drives and a game sealing INT by Perry Riley.
*I could go on and on with LSU’s clutch wins over the last 5 years.
*Miles is 4-0 and about to be 5-0 in bowl games.
*Miles owns VICTORIES over Urban Meyer (twice), Bob Stoops (twice), Jim Tressell, Nick Saban, Bobby Petrino, Paul Johnson, Steve Spurrier, Frank Beamer, Mark Richt, Tommy Tuberville, Gary Pinkel, Mike Leach, Mark Mangino, Mike Stoops, Bob Toledo, Bill Snyder, and Dennis Franchione (the same Dennis Franchione that came into Tiger Stadium in 2002 and beat down Nick Saban 31-0). Not to mention a number of other coaches who are no longer employed.
*Miles is 51-14 over 5 years. Meyer, the Gold Standard for college coaches, is 56-10 over that same period, averaging a whopping 1 win per season more than Miles.
*I’m tired of this knee jerk “fire the bums” reaction by delusional LSU fans. Had you been in my class you’d have gotten a “D.” Just for the simple fact that I wouldn’t have wanted to see you again for another semester.
Three Words: GET. SOME. PERSPECTIVE.
Friday, December 04, 2009
2009 in Review
Offense
Defense wins championships, but elite teams are built on excellent offensive lines. It goes without saying that the 2009 LSU football team did not merit elite status, and we need look no further than the offensive line. LSU rushed for 129 yards per game, the worst output since 1999. LSU gave up nearly 3 sacks per game (35 total), ranking them 108th in the nation. Compare that with Alabama who only gave up a total of 14 sacks all season. The offense could never generate any consistency or rhythm because of the lack of a consistent running game. Which in turn led to…
Way to much pressure was placed on the shoulders of Jordan Jefferson. Without a reliable running game, Jefferson was called upon repeatedly to make plays for the Tigers. He was placed in tough situations with unreliable pass protection, which led to inconsistency and numerous sacks. Were some of the errors his alone? Sure. But repeatedly placing Jefferson in five wide formations did not play to his strength. Making Jefferson run the option got to be a running joke. Not because he executed the play poorly, but because Gary Crowton refused to throw it out of the playbook. Given Jefferson’s inherent strengths and weaknesses, I think he did fairly well overall.
Speaking of Crowton, I think Les Miles needs to make a move and bring in another coordinator. Crowton was the right guy in 2007, but I am not sure he is the guy who can lead LSU long term on the offensive side of the ball. It appeared that LSU was consistently out coached in the second half of games. The Tigers only scored 7 offensive TD’s in the second half of their 8 SEC games. Not that first halves were much better, the Tigers only tallied 7 offensive TD’s in the first half of the 8 SEC games. When you think about it, it is amazing the Tigers finished 5-3 in the conference with such a poor offensive output. LSU finished 11th in the SEC in rushing offense, 9th in passing offense and 10th in scoring offense.
My solution, hire former Kansas head coach Mark Mangino. He’s coached at Oklahoma and Kansas and does a great job of developing QB’s. While he’s at it, Miles should get rid of the offensive line coach as well.
Offensive Line: D
Quarterback: B
Running Backs: B-
Wide Receivers: B-
Coaching: C-
Defense
He was on the top of my list and LSU fans are glad we have him. Thank you John Chavis! After an utterly forgettable 2008 defensive fiasco, Miles brought in Chavis to right a listing defense. He did that and plus some. But that’s not to say there is no room for improvement. The Tigers ranked 44th in the country stopping the run and 4th in the SEC. The Tigers finished 19th in pass efficiency defense and 29th in total defense. The most encouraging statistic was the number 12 national ranking in scoring defense at 16 points per game.
Great defense starts up front and while the defensive line was good, it was nowhere near elite. All too often teams had success running on LSU and the Tigers struggled to create a pass rush with the front four. LSU loses a few guys on the D-line, but I have a feeling the younger players will step up next year and make this unit even better.
The linebacker spot was where fans saw the greatest improvement. So many times in 2008 fans were left asking, “where are the linebackers?” as an opponent scooted down field for another big gain. Not this season. Kelvin Sheppard has morphed into a real playmaker and will battle for All-SEC honors next season. The loss of Cutrera and Riley will hurt, but LSU has Ryan Baker and other young guys ready to step in.
The secondary was solid all season. As I have said before, I think Patrick Peterson is LSU’s best football player. Period. He’s a lock down corner who has to be on the field. No one of significance is leaving so the secondary should be in great shape next year.
With another year of coaching by this defensive staff, the Tigers look to improve in 2010 on an excellent 2009 performance.
Defensive Line: B
Linebackers: A-
Secondary: A-
Coaching: A
Special Teams
Josh Jasper was excellent all season making 19 of 16 FG attempts, none bigger than the two late FG’s versus Arkansas. As a team, LSU finished #1 in the nation in punt returns and Trindon Holliday finished #3 individually. The Tigers were ranked #14 in net punting. Another great season on the special teams front.
K/O returns: B
Punt Returns: A
Punt coverage: A-
K/O coverage: A-
Punting: B+
Coaching: A
Defense wins championships, but elite teams are built on excellent offensive lines. It goes without saying that the 2009 LSU football team did not merit elite status, and we need look no further than the offensive line. LSU rushed for 129 yards per game, the worst output since 1999. LSU gave up nearly 3 sacks per game (35 total), ranking them 108th in the nation. Compare that with Alabama who only gave up a total of 14 sacks all season. The offense could never generate any consistency or rhythm because of the lack of a consistent running game. Which in turn led to…
Way to much pressure was placed on the shoulders of Jordan Jefferson. Without a reliable running game, Jefferson was called upon repeatedly to make plays for the Tigers. He was placed in tough situations with unreliable pass protection, which led to inconsistency and numerous sacks. Were some of the errors his alone? Sure. But repeatedly placing Jefferson in five wide formations did not play to his strength. Making Jefferson run the option got to be a running joke. Not because he executed the play poorly, but because Gary Crowton refused to throw it out of the playbook. Given Jefferson’s inherent strengths and weaknesses, I think he did fairly well overall.
Speaking of Crowton, I think Les Miles needs to make a move and bring in another coordinator. Crowton was the right guy in 2007, but I am not sure he is the guy who can lead LSU long term on the offensive side of the ball. It appeared that LSU was consistently out coached in the second half of games. The Tigers only scored 7 offensive TD’s in the second half of their 8 SEC games. Not that first halves were much better, the Tigers only tallied 7 offensive TD’s in the first half of the 8 SEC games. When you think about it, it is amazing the Tigers finished 5-3 in the conference with such a poor offensive output. LSU finished 11th in the SEC in rushing offense, 9th in passing offense and 10th in scoring offense.
My solution, hire former Kansas head coach Mark Mangino. He’s coached at Oklahoma and Kansas and does a great job of developing QB’s. While he’s at it, Miles should get rid of the offensive line coach as well.
Offensive Line: D
Quarterback: B
Running Backs: B-
Wide Receivers: B-
Coaching: C-
Defense
He was on the top of my list and LSU fans are glad we have him. Thank you John Chavis! After an utterly forgettable 2008 defensive fiasco, Miles brought in Chavis to right a listing defense. He did that and plus some. But that’s not to say there is no room for improvement. The Tigers ranked 44th in the country stopping the run and 4th in the SEC. The Tigers finished 19th in pass efficiency defense and 29th in total defense. The most encouraging statistic was the number 12 national ranking in scoring defense at 16 points per game.
Great defense starts up front and while the defensive line was good, it was nowhere near elite. All too often teams had success running on LSU and the Tigers struggled to create a pass rush with the front four. LSU loses a few guys on the D-line, but I have a feeling the younger players will step up next year and make this unit even better.
The linebacker spot was where fans saw the greatest improvement. So many times in 2008 fans were left asking, “where are the linebackers?” as an opponent scooted down field for another big gain. Not this season. Kelvin Sheppard has morphed into a real playmaker and will battle for All-SEC honors next season. The loss of Cutrera and Riley will hurt, but LSU has Ryan Baker and other young guys ready to step in.
With another year of coaching by this defensive staff, the Tigers look to improve in 2010 on an excellent 2009 performance.
Defensive Line: B
Linebackers: A-
Secondary: A-
Coaching: A
Special Teams
Josh Jasper was excellent all season making 19 of 16 FG attempts, none bigger than the two late FG’s versus Arkansas. As a team, LSU finished #1 in the nation in punt returns and Trindon Holliday finished #3 individually. The Tigers were ranked #14 in net punting. Another great season on the special teams front.
K/O returns: B
Punt Returns: A
Punt coverage: A-
K/O coverage: A-
Punting: B+
Coaching: A
Tuesday, December 01, 2009
The Sigh of Relief Heard Round the World
True Story:
Riding the elevator down from the west upper deck after the game, feeling pretty chippy, I joking said loud enough for everyone to hear, “Les Miles for Coach of the Year.” The people on the elevator looked at me like I just called their mothers whores that are banging the entire football team.
We just won a great football game folks. Get over yourselves! Be joyous. I’m sorry your life is so empty and unfulfilling that you have to live through LSU football. Do you realize that we WON THE GAME? Isn’t that the goal of football? This is just another reason I have gradually grown to resent so much of the LSU fan base, ignorance, hypocrisy and narrow-mindedness.
I have a confession to make. For the first time since the death throws of the Gerry DiNardo era, I gave up on the Tigers during a game. It happened when Jefferson threw that pick to open the second half and the Hogs quickly converted. I could see LSU giving away another half time lead and going into the toilet. LSU led Alabama and Ole Miss at the half and let those games slip away. Maybe the entire season had worn me down maybe my lack of faith in Gary Crowton got the best of me.
But just when you think it’s over, the Tigers claw back. Jefferson led LSU on a 67 yard drive which culminated in a 19 yard TD pass to Deangelo Peterson. On the drive, Jefferson was 4 of 5 for 41 yards and also rushed for 11 yards. The Tigers again went down with 1:12 left in the game but put together a CLUTCH drive which resulted in a 41 yard FG with 9 seconds remaining.
This game was a microcosm of LSU’s season. Offensively, at times the Tigers floundered and looked inept. They routinely seemed to make things more difficult for themselves. But at other times they looked crisp and very sharp. But they never had that killer instinct, in SEC games, LSU, outside of the Auburn game, never really put any of their opponents away when given the chance.
The defense gave up plays between the 20’s but then seemed to solidify in the red zone. I think everyone would agree that the defense is much better than last year. LSU finished 12th in the country in scoring defense at 16 points a game.
At times the coaching was hit and miss, but the bottom line is winning. LSU went 9-3 this year and without the gaff at Ole Miss, LSU would be 10-2 with losses to UF and Bama. The players never quit and always played hard (minus maybe the Louisiana Tech game which in my mind was understandable).
To quote Al Davis…just win baby.
My next post will review the season in more depth and address what I think LSU needs to do in the future.
Riding the elevator down from the west upper deck after the game, feeling pretty chippy, I joking said loud enough for everyone to hear, “Les Miles for Coach of the Year.” The people on the elevator looked at me like I just called their mothers whores that are banging the entire football team.
We just won a great football game folks. Get over yourselves! Be joyous. I’m sorry your life is so empty and unfulfilling that you have to live through LSU football. Do you realize that we WON THE GAME? Isn’t that the goal of football? This is just another reason I have gradually grown to resent so much of the LSU fan base, ignorance, hypocrisy and narrow-mindedness.
I have a confession to make. For the first time since the death throws of the Gerry DiNardo era, I gave up on the Tigers during a game. It happened when Jefferson threw that pick to open the second half and the Hogs quickly converted. I could see LSU giving away another half time lead and going into the toilet. LSU led Alabama and Ole Miss at the half and let those games slip away. Maybe the entire season had worn me down maybe my lack of faith in Gary Crowton got the best of me.
But just when you think it’s over, the Tigers claw back. Jefferson led LSU on a 67 yard drive which culminated in a 19 yard TD pass to Deangelo Peterson. On the drive, Jefferson was 4 of 5 for 41 yards and also rushed for 11 yards. The Tigers again went down with 1:12 left in the game but put together a CLUTCH drive which resulted in a 41 yard FG with 9 seconds remaining.
This game was a microcosm of LSU’s season. Offensively, at times the Tigers floundered and looked inept. They routinely seemed to make things more difficult for themselves. But at other times they looked crisp and very sharp. But they never had that killer instinct, in SEC games, LSU, outside of the Auburn game, never really put any of their opponents away when given the chance.
The defense gave up plays between the 20’s but then seemed to solidify in the red zone. I think everyone would agree that the defense is much better than last year. LSU finished 12th in the country in scoring defense at 16 points a game.
At times the coaching was hit and miss, but the bottom line is winning. LSU went 9-3 this year and without the gaff at Ole Miss, LSU would be 10-2 with losses to UF and Bama. The players never quit and always played hard (minus maybe the Louisiana Tech game which in my mind was understandable).
To quote Al Davis…just win baby.
My next post will review the season in more depth and address what I think LSU needs to do in the future.
Wednesday, November 25, 2009
Sunday, November 22, 2009
No time to pout Leslie...
Check out Ryan Mallett's road stats...
Check out the Hogs' road stats...
More national humiliation for Miles...
Just listened to Miles' press conference at lunch. He said all the right things and took responsibility. It's over; let's get ready for Arkansas.
Check out the Hogs' road stats...
More national humiliation for Miles...
Just listened to Miles' press conference at lunch. He said all the right things and took responsibility. It's over; let's get ready for Arkansas.
I want a REAL COACH...
I want a real Coach.
I want a real coach that wins the National Championship every year.
Like…er…nevermind.
I want a real coach that wins his conference EVERY year, like Pete Carroll at USC.
Oh…wait…USC has given up 50 points twice this year and is going to the Sun Bowl.
I want a real coach that has been to the National Championship game three times and won them all, like Jim Tressel at Ohio State.
Well…actually…he’s 1-2 in title games getting blown out by Florida and LSU in ’06 and ’07.
I want a real coach that wins 10 games every year and has been to 7 BSC games, 4 National Championship Games and won them ALL! You know, like Bob Stoops at Oklahoma.
That’s not entirely correct; he’s actually 6-5 this season, 1-4 in National Championship Games and lost his last 5 consecutive BCS games. LOSER! Who wants a guy like that!?
I want a real coach that can win the SEC 6 times in 10 years, like that Spurrier guy.
Nevermind the fact that he’s 18-22 in the SEC in his last 5 seasons.
I want a real coach that can lose to UAB and UL Monroe at home and go 12-0 in the regular season, lose in the SEC title game and then get blasted in the Sugar Bowl.
Actually, I think Nick Saban could have some success at LSU.
I want a real coach who can win two National Titles in three years and would never lose TWICE to a fool like Les Miles. Urban Meyer is our man. We will just look the other way at those two loses to that goofball Miles.
That settles it then, LSU’s AD needs to fire Miles and hire either Saban or Meyer for the 2010 season. See how easy that was…
I want a real coach that wins the National Championship every year.
Like…er…nevermind.
I want a real coach that wins his conference EVERY year, like Pete Carroll at USC.
Oh…wait…USC has given up 50 points twice this year and is going to the Sun Bowl.
I want a real coach that has been to the National Championship game three times and won them all, like Jim Tressel at Ohio State.
Well…actually…he’s 1-2 in title games getting blown out by Florida and LSU in ’06 and ’07.
I want a real coach that wins 10 games every year and has been to 7 BSC games, 4 National Championship Games and won them ALL! You know, like Bob Stoops at Oklahoma.
That’s not entirely correct; he’s actually 6-5 this season, 1-4 in National Championship Games and lost his last 5 consecutive BCS games. LOSER! Who wants a guy like that!?
I want a real coach that can win the SEC 6 times in 10 years, like that Spurrier guy.
Nevermind the fact that he’s 18-22 in the SEC in his last 5 seasons.
I want a real coach that can lose to UAB and UL Monroe at home and go 12-0 in the regular season, lose in the SEC title game and then get blasted in the Sugar Bowl.
Actually, I think Nick Saban could have some success at LSU.
I want a real coach who can win two National Titles in three years and would never lose TWICE to a fool like Les Miles. Urban Meyer is our man. We will just look the other way at those two loses to that goofball Miles.
That settles it then, LSU’s AD needs to fire Miles and hire either Saban or Meyer for the 2010 season. See how easy that was…
Saturday, November 21, 2009
I've had about enough...
I give up. I’ve tried to defend Miles’ game management skills and I am not doing it any more. LSU is a slightly above average football team (program?) led by a below average game management coach. Miles’ may be able to manage the program, recruit, hire the right people and be the face of the football team. But how in the hell do you allow 17 seconds to run off the clock before calling a timeout? Inexcusable.
Miles is now 11-10 in his last 21 SEC games. He has losing records to Meyer, Saban, Richt, Nutt and Petrino (6-11). He is 1-8 in the last nine games versus these coaches. You want to fire him, fine with me. But be sure the next guy is better than Miles. Not just in game management, but in all respects. That is always my criteria. Can you get someone to come to LSU that is better than who you have?
I remember when Saban left he recommended Houston Nutt to replace him as LSU’s coach. Many scoffed. I wonder what they think now.
Does anyone think this team can bounce back this weekend versus Arkansas? Or is another embarrassing loss more likely?
Is LSU a program in decline?
I hate to make such bold pronouncements, but as long as Les Miles is at the helm, LSU will not win another division title much less an SEC Title. There won’t be any more BCS games or runs at a National Title. That ship has sailed.
The only thing left is the countdown. How many 8-4 seasons will it take before “the owners” have had enough of Miles and his atrocious game management? LSU won’t fall to the depths of say Florida State or Miami under Larry Coker, but special teams and special seasons will no longer be a possibility under the current regime.
Sure, LSU could win the last two games of the season and finish a very respectable 10-3. We could speak of the possibly and promise of the 2010 recruiting class and season. But would you really believe it? Would you really have any faith in this staff to turn that potential into tangible success?
Miles will be back in 2010 for his sixth year. That will make him the 5th longest tenured coach in LSU history and give him the longest term in office since Charlie McClendon. Stability is a good thing, but not at the price of success.
Let the countdown begin.
Miles is now 11-10 in his last 21 SEC games. He has losing records to Meyer, Saban, Richt, Nutt and Petrino (6-11). He is 1-8 in the last nine games versus these coaches. You want to fire him, fine with me. But be sure the next guy is better than Miles. Not just in game management, but in all respects. That is always my criteria. Can you get someone to come to LSU that is better than who you have?
I remember when Saban left he recommended Houston Nutt to replace him as LSU’s coach. Many scoffed. I wonder what they think now.
Does anyone think this team can bounce back this weekend versus Arkansas? Or is another embarrassing loss more likely?
Is LSU a program in decline?
I hate to make such bold pronouncements, but as long as Les Miles is at the helm, LSU will not win another division title much less an SEC Title. There won’t be any more BCS games or runs at a National Title. That ship has sailed.
The only thing left is the countdown. How many 8-4 seasons will it take before “the owners” have had enough of Miles and his atrocious game management? LSU won’t fall to the depths of say Florida State or Miami under Larry Coker, but special teams and special seasons will no longer be a possibility under the current regime.
Sure, LSU could win the last two games of the season and finish a very respectable 10-3. We could speak of the possibly and promise of the 2010 recruiting class and season. But would you really believe it? Would you really have any faith in this staff to turn that potential into tangible success?
Miles will be back in 2010 for his sixth year. That will make him the 5th longest tenured coach in LSU history and give him the longest term in office since Charlie McClendon. Stability is a good thing, but not at the price of success.
Let the countdown begin.
Sunday, November 08, 2009
Hate those guys...
No, not the refs...
LSU played the fourth quarter versus Alabama with a backup quarterback, a backup running back, a backup tight end and a backup center. Add that to the fact that LSU’s best PLAYER was not on the field as Julio Jones streaked down the sideline for 73 yards, and Miles' utterly STUPID attempt at a two point conversion in the third quarter and you have a nine point loss to the number three team in the country.
LSU played valiantly and even led going into the fourth quarter, but Bama held LSU to 9 yards in the final stanza while the Tide put up 14 unanswered points.
* The attempted two point conversion is what infuriates me the most about the loss. STUPID, STUPID, STUPID. I am not sure if that originated with Miles or he just went along with another coach yelling for two, but he is the head coach and must take full responsibility. That single call changed the dynamic of the game and put LSU in an impossible situation late. Had he kicked the extra point, LSU would only have been down 7 with three minutes left to go. Plenty of time to move the ball and even throw in a few well timed running plays. But because of the call earlier, LSU was down 9 and Lee was forced to drop back every play. That was an unfair spot for Lee.
* LSU got hosed by the refs. Imagine that. Peterson was clearly inbounds on the pick. I am sick of the SEC refs who can’t even get it right with replay. Pathetic. I hope that crew gets suspended. That’s not a rant or throw away statement; I really do hope that Mike Slive suspends those guys in the booth.
* LSU was called for roughing the kicker mid way through the fourth quarter. Daniel Graff, who blocked a punt against Tulane, came free and had a bead on the punter. He was in position to make a play but instead ran into the kicker and drew the five yard penalty. Bama had new life and eventually scored a FG on that drive. Graff was trying to make a play to regain the momentum for LSU but came up a bit short. Unfortunate and unlucky.
* LSU made too many mistakes to win a big game like that on the road. On LSU’s first drive, Jefferson seemingly scrambled for the first but then twisted and stood up and was tackled just short. LSU was forced to punt. Put your head down and run man! Next drive, Jefferson connects with Lafell for a big first down only to have it called back because LSU lined up improperly. LSU had 8 penalties for the game, many of those pre-snap.
* Would you believe LSU lost and MOVED UP in the BCS rankings? How bout them apples?
* Miles is going to earn his paycheck the next three weeks (or not). It will be interesting to see how he handles the psyche of the team after this tough loss. With a division and SEC title out the window, can he get this group to focus and finish strong?
* While unlikely, LSU can still play in the Sugar Bowl. A loss by Bama to Miss. State or Auburn then another loss to Florida in the SEC Title game combined with LSU winning out would give both teams two losses. LSU would finish near the top 5 in the BCS Standings and be very attractive for the Sugar Bowl. It’s a stretch, but not impossible.
* This is the second draft of this blog. In the first draft I was ready to throw Miles under the bus and declare the SEC West Division the permanent property of Alabama as long as Saban walks the Tide sidelines. That may still happen, but I am holding out hope that Miles & Co. finish strong and have this team ready to rock in 2010. Seriously, it’s not like LSU has lost to bad clubs. Florida and Alabama may be the best two teams in the country and LSU went toe to toe with both. No shame there.
SEC officials...crooked or just stupid?
LSU played the fourth quarter versus Alabama with a backup quarterback, a backup running back, a backup tight end and a backup center. Add that to the fact that LSU’s best PLAYER was not on the field as Julio Jones streaked down the sideline for 73 yards, and Miles' utterly STUPID attempt at a two point conversion in the third quarter and you have a nine point loss to the number three team in the country.
LSU played valiantly and even led going into the fourth quarter, but Bama held LSU to 9 yards in the final stanza while the Tide put up 14 unanswered points.
* The attempted two point conversion is what infuriates me the most about the loss. STUPID, STUPID, STUPID. I am not sure if that originated with Miles or he just went along with another coach yelling for two, but he is the head coach and must take full responsibility. That single call changed the dynamic of the game and put LSU in an impossible situation late. Had he kicked the extra point, LSU would only have been down 7 with three minutes left to go. Plenty of time to move the ball and even throw in a few well timed running plays. But because of the call earlier, LSU was down 9 and Lee was forced to drop back every play. That was an unfair spot for Lee.
* LSU got hosed by the refs. Imagine that. Peterson was clearly inbounds on the pick. I am sick of the SEC refs who can’t even get it right with replay. Pathetic. I hope that crew gets suspended. That’s not a rant or throw away statement; I really do hope that Mike Slive suspends those guys in the booth.
* LSU was called for roughing the kicker mid way through the fourth quarter. Daniel Graff, who blocked a punt against Tulane, came free and had a bead on the punter. He was in position to make a play but instead ran into the kicker and drew the five yard penalty. Bama had new life and eventually scored a FG on that drive. Graff was trying to make a play to regain the momentum for LSU but came up a bit short. Unfortunate and unlucky.
* LSU made too many mistakes to win a big game like that on the road. On LSU’s first drive, Jefferson seemingly scrambled for the first but then twisted and stood up and was tackled just short. LSU was forced to punt. Put your head down and run man! Next drive, Jefferson connects with Lafell for a big first down only to have it called back because LSU lined up improperly. LSU had 8 penalties for the game, many of those pre-snap.
* Would you believe LSU lost and MOVED UP in the BCS rankings? How bout them apples?
* Miles is going to earn his paycheck the next three weeks (or not). It will be interesting to see how he handles the psyche of the team after this tough loss. With a division and SEC title out the window, can he get this group to focus and finish strong?
* While unlikely, LSU can still play in the Sugar Bowl. A loss by Bama to Miss. State or Auburn then another loss to Florida in the SEC Title game combined with LSU winning out would give both teams two losses. LSU would finish near the top 5 in the BCS Standings and be very attractive for the Sugar Bowl. It’s a stretch, but not impossible. * LSU will have to figure out how to finish the season without Chuck the Truck. His broken collarbone puts him out until the bowl game or worse.
* This is the second draft of this blog. In the first draft I was ready to throw Miles under the bus and declare the SEC West Division the permanent property of Alabama as long as Saban walks the Tide sidelines. That may still happen, but I am holding out hope that Miles & Co. finish strong and have this team ready to rock in 2010. Seriously, it’s not like LSU has lost to bad clubs. Florida and Alabama may be the best two teams in the country and LSU went toe to toe with both. No shame there.
SEC officials...crooked or just stupid?
Thursday, November 05, 2009
LSU v. Alabama
We’ve been off for a few weeks but the giant tilt with Alabama has gotten us off the couch. LSU is 7-2 versus Alabama since 2000. LSU has won four in a row in Tuscaloosa and since 1982, the Tigers have posted a gaudy 10-3 record in games played at Alabama. From a historical standpoint, LSU has fared very well on the road in this series.
What LSU needs to do:
* Score early. This will put pressure Alabama’s offense and give LSU some early confidence.
* Stop Ingram. Alabama’s offense has slowly regressed this season. McElroy is averaging only 126 yards passing per game in his last four outings. Stop the run and LSU can win this game.
* Convert in the Red Zone. Opportunities will be at a premium. LSU MUST take advantage of deep drives into Bama territory and score TD’s.
* Get a Special Teams or Defensive score. Pick 6, punt return for a TD…LSU needs a game changer from one of these units.
What will happen:
* LSU won’t be able to run the ball at all. LSU’s O-line versus Alabama’s D-line is a mismatch. Third and short for LSU will not be as advantageous to the Tigers as it should be.
*Without a running game, more pressure will be put on Jefferson to perform. He will look good at times, but he’s not at a level yet where he can LEAD LSU to victory with his QB play.
*LSU’s defense will be excellent. The Tigers may even win the turnover battle. But Bama will put together one big drive each half which will be critical.
*Alabama will do just enough to win late. The game could even go into OT again.
LSU 13 – Bama 17
LSU v Bama from 2005....
Sunday, October 18, 2009
Auburn up Next
Is there a better series in college football right now? This game has had it all over the past twenty-one years starting in 1988 with…
1988 - The “Earthquake Game.” LSU was down all night to #4 Auburn. Late in the fourth quarter, Tommy Hodson hits Eddie Fuller in the back of the endzone of fourth down to seize a 7-6 victory. The emotional eruption registered on the seismograph in the geology department.
1989 - The next season LSU lost a tough defensive game 10-6 at Auburn.
1992 – Jamie Howard brings LSU all the way back from a huge deficit to take the lead 28-27 late in the 4th quarter. But Curley Hallman, in a sign of failures to come plays prevent and Auburn marches down the field and kicks the game winning FG. AU 30 – LSU 28
1994 - The Interception Game. Jamie Howard throws 3 pick-6’s as LSU blows a game they dominated all afternoon. AU 30 – LSU 26
1995 - #5 Auburn travels to LSU only to fall 12-6 in Gerry DiNardo’s first season. The game wasn’t over until the final play when LSU intercepted the potential game winning pass in the endzone.
1996 – LSU again traveled to Auburn and came home victorious. AU scored very late to pull within two points. On the ensuing two point conversion, the Tigers intercepted the pass and raced down the field for a “pick-6” making the score 19-15. However, Auburn recovered the subsequent onsides kick. LSU sealed the game with an interception with only moments to play.
1997 – Cecil Collins went nuts but Auburn’s Dameyune Craig led the Tigers down the field and scored the game winning TD with only moments to go. AU 31 – LSU 28
2004 – The series took a hiatus from the thrill rides of past seasons but returned to form in a classic defensive struggle decided by a missed XP and a dubious penalty on LSU. Auburn converted on a 4th and long on the game winning drive. Then missed the XP after tying the score at 9-9. But a flag was thrown on LSU for landing on another player and Auburn was allowed to re-kick. I have NEVER seen that penalty called in 27 years of watching football. AU 10 – LSU 9
2005 – LSU won a wild game 20-17 in OT. Auburn’s normally reliable kicker, John Vaughn, missed FIVE field goals, the last hitting the left upright in OT.
2006 - Another classic marred by the officials. Down 7-3, LSU throws deep on 4th and long. Early Doucet is mugged around the goal line and the ball is tipped away. The ref closest to the play throws a flag but is overruled. AU 7 – LSU 3.
2007 – LSU triumphed 30-24 in stunning fashion. With only seconds left on the clock, Matt Flynn hit Demetrius Byrd for a 34 yard TD in the corner of the endzone. At the end of the play, only one second remained on the clock.
2008 – Down 14-3 at the half, Jarrett Lee brought LSU back for a stirring 26-21 win in Jordan Hare Stadium. Lee hit Brandon LaFell with a little over a minute left for the game winning TD.
Thoughts on this week’s game…
I think coaches are starting to figure out that Auburn offense. The Tigers were blown out on the road two weeks ago and scored one offensive TD against Kentucky this week. ONE. And that was at home. Tiger Stadium will be rocking this weekend for this annual blood feud.
Auburn ranks 11th in rushing defense and total defense in the SEC. If LSU can’t move the ball against these guys this season will have an unhappy ending. I hope the coaches come out with a game plan that will emphasize the run. Either from the spread or two TE’s, LSU needs to have an identity. Jordan Jefferson cannot be the identity of this team. The staff needs to put less on his shoulders, not more.
The last five games have been decided by an average of four points each...
LSU 27 – Auburn 23
1988 - The “Earthquake Game.” LSU was down all night to #4 Auburn. Late in the fourth quarter, Tommy Hodson hits Eddie Fuller in the back of the endzone of fourth down to seize a 7-6 victory. The emotional eruption registered on the seismograph in the geology department.
1989 - The next season LSU lost a tough defensive game 10-6 at Auburn.
1992 – Jamie Howard brings LSU all the way back from a huge deficit to take the lead 28-27 late in the 4th quarter. But Curley Hallman, in a sign of failures to come plays prevent and Auburn marches down the field and kicks the game winning FG. AU 30 – LSU 28
1994 - The Interception Game. Jamie Howard throws 3 pick-6’s as LSU blows a game they dominated all afternoon. AU 30 – LSU 26
1995 - #5 Auburn travels to LSU only to fall 12-6 in Gerry DiNardo’s first season. The game wasn’t over until the final play when LSU intercepted the potential game winning pass in the endzone.
1996 – LSU again traveled to Auburn and came home victorious. AU scored very late to pull within two points. On the ensuing two point conversion, the Tigers intercepted the pass and raced down the field for a “pick-6” making the score 19-15. However, Auburn recovered the subsequent onsides kick. LSU sealed the game with an interception with only moments to play.
1997 – Cecil Collins went nuts but Auburn’s Dameyune Craig led the Tigers down the field and scored the game winning TD with only moments to go. AU 31 – LSU 28
2004 – The series took a hiatus from the thrill rides of past seasons but returned to form in a classic defensive struggle decided by a missed XP and a dubious penalty on LSU. Auburn converted on a 4th and long on the game winning drive. Then missed the XP after tying the score at 9-9. But a flag was thrown on LSU for landing on another player and Auburn was allowed to re-kick. I have NEVER seen that penalty called in 27 years of watching football. AU 10 – LSU 9
2005 – LSU won a wild game 20-17 in OT. Auburn’s normally reliable kicker, John Vaughn, missed FIVE field goals, the last hitting the left upright in OT.
2006 - Another classic marred by the officials. Down 7-3, LSU throws deep on 4th and long. Early Doucet is mugged around the goal line and the ball is tipped away. The ref closest to the play throws a flag but is overruled. AU 7 – LSU 3.
2007 – LSU triumphed 30-24 in stunning fashion. With only seconds left on the clock, Matt Flynn hit Demetrius Byrd for a 34 yard TD in the corner of the endzone. At the end of the play, only one second remained on the clock.
2008 – Down 14-3 at the half, Jarrett Lee brought LSU back for a stirring 26-21 win in Jordan Hare Stadium. Lee hit Brandon LaFell with a little over a minute left for the game winning TD.
Thoughts on this week’s game…
I think coaches are starting to figure out that Auburn offense. The Tigers were blown out on the road two weeks ago and scored one offensive TD against Kentucky this week. ONE. And that was at home. Tiger Stadium will be rocking this weekend for this annual blood feud.
Auburn ranks 11th in rushing defense and total defense in the SEC. If LSU can’t move the ball against these guys this season will have an unhappy ending. I hope the coaches come out with a game plan that will emphasize the run. Either from the spread or two TE’s, LSU needs to have an identity. Jordan Jefferson cannot be the identity of this team. The staff needs to put less on his shoulders, not more.
The last five games have been decided by an average of four points each...
LSU 27 – Auburn 23
The Off Week
One of the themes I repeatedly hit on is the importance of fans keeping their perspective.
*For instance, for all of LSU’s struggles on offense, at least they did not go on the road to a 1-5 team and score a grand total of 18 points. Terrelle Pryor, for all the hype, finished 17 of 31 with two INT’s versus the 76th ranked defense in the nation. OSU is ranked 108th in the nation in passing offense. Pryor was the consensus #1 player in the country coming out in 2008.
*Some of these “dual-threat QB’s” may be viewed as fool’s gold. OSU and LSU have interesting parallels in this respect. I am sure during the recruiting of these two, coaches were looking at their athletic ability and drooling. But are they good fits for these programs? Tressel and Miles are Big Ten guys who believe in good defense, pounding the run and mixing in the pass. Look at Miles first four seasons, Russell, Flynn and Lee lined up under center for the Tigers, traditional pocket passers that could throw downfield and hand the ball off. Tressel has had Craig Krenzel, Troy Smith and Todd Boeckman before Pryor. In 2002, Krenzel ranked 14th in the nation in passing efficiency as he led OSU to a national title. In 2006, Troy Smith won the Heisman trophy finishing the season ranked 7th in passing efficiency. Boeckman led OSU to the 2007 National Championship game.
*You cannot underestimate the importance of talented coordinators. Look at Florida, the Gators lose offensive coordinator Dan Mullen and we see a regression in the offense. I know UF lost Percy Harvin and Louis Murphy, but you have TIM TEBOW at QB.
*USC’s TE Anthony McCoy is a freak. He’s 6-5, 250 lbs. and can RUN. He had 5 catches for 153 yards versus ND.
*The Hogs went toe to toe with Florida but thanks to the officials and wasted opportunities by Arkansas we will have to wait at least another week to see that come to pass. Florida has no receivers to speak of.
*Iowa is 7-0 but travel to Michigan State this weekend. Since 2002, the teams have played five times, the home team winning all five.
*The angst expressed upon Nick Saban’s hiring at Alabama was well founded. Not for the silly reason of betrayal or hurt feelings, but because he would elevate the Crimson Tide to the juggernaut you now see. Using MIKE SHULA’S players (seems that Saban is getting a TOTAL pass on this) Saban has led Bama to a 26-8 record thus far and a 19 game regular season winning streak. Alabama’s defense is as nasty as the 2003 LSU crew. BUT…and this is a bigger BUT(T) than Terrence “Mount” Cody’s, if Bama does NOT win the SEC Title this season, Bama fans will have nothing of importance to show for Saban’s first three seasons.*BCS Standings are out and LSU is ranked 9th. In my mind, LSU can still play for the National Championship. Foolish you say?! I would probably have to agree. But if LSU can get past Auburn, the Tigers will head to Tuscaloosa in November with a 7-1 record and its fate squarely in its hands.
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