LSU v Auburn - Week 8

LSU v Auburn – Week 8

Suspensions

First, let me say that I realize there are more important things in life than LSU Football. I wanted to blog a little about this situation prior to the game Saturday, so that my current thoughts don’t go by the way-side based on the game.

Disappointed and Frustrated. Add an “extremely” and a “very” in front and that about sums up my feelings upon hearing of the suspensions of Mathieu, Ware and Simon. Regardless of whether the Mary Jane was synthetic or the real stuff, they are in a high profile position where doing anything but eating the grass is frown upon in this establishment. Mathieu, Ware and Simon need to realize that this isn’t the 70’s and they aren’t rock stars. Peter, Paul and Mary they ain’t.

Go back to my blog a few weeks ago when I asked the questions: “Is it ok to believe that these Tigers will not falter mightily and let me down? Is it ok to believe we are the best? Is it ok to believe in Les Miles?” Almost prophetic, don’t you think? Simply having put these questions out there shows that I had an uneasy feeling that another shoe would drop (sorry JJ, pun intended with “shoe”). It’s a little unnerving to be such an ardent fan of the #1 team in the nation but not truly believe. If the Tigers were to lose one or two games this year, to anyone but Ole Miss, I wouldn’t feel let down. Disappointed, yes, but it’s football, in the SEC…leave it on the field and I’m ok with the final score, win or lose. Continue with these off the field issues and that’s where my belief in the Tigers wavers. I truly believe that great teams are made off the field. Without some sort of respect, camaraderie, bond, off the field, a team can never reach it’s full potential, regardless of the talent and ability you exhibit on the field.

And coaching…Miles has never been known as a real hard-a$$ on rule breakers. Sure, he’s made some tough decisions and done the right thing (Ryan Perrilloux) but he’s also been somewhat lenient at times. All this does is open the door for other players to invite trouble, knowing the punishment won’t be severe. I can use Brad Wing as an example. His bar brawl several months ago garnered no evident punishment from Miles. I don’t know the facts of this fight, but even if Wing was an innocent bystander Miles could have used the situation as an illustration in how LSU football players that find themselves at the wrong place at the wrong time are likely to have the finger pointed at them, just because of who they are, or their “popularity” as in the case of Jordan Jefferson.

I truly feel that even if LSU remains undefeated, winning another National Championship, this squad as a whole, arguably the best to ever take the field at LSU, will always have this black eye from off the field issues, at least for me.

So to answer my questions from above: No. Yes. I don’t know.

Is it ok to believe that these Tigers will not falter mightily and let me down?

No. It’s done, they’ve let me down. Their “leaders” have taken for granted what it means to play for LSU. It’s an embarrassment to the program, to the school and to the community as a whole. I mean, really, does South Louisiana need any more help being embarrassed in the public eye?

Is it ok to believe we are the best?

Yes, because, quite simply, we are. That knowledge is what lends to all of the off the field issues being such a disappointment. We’re on the verge of greatness, but that has to carry over to off the field too.

Is it ok to believe in Les Miles?

I want to, I really do. I mean, on the field, other than his stead-fast decision for Jefferson to be a staple in the offense, he has made all the right calls. He’s recruited the right players, he’s hired some extraordinary coaches and he’s just kooky enough to be loveable. But his teams lack discipline and he seems to pick and choose which punishments fit which crimes. These LSU players need a firm line of the law that isn’t subjective to who you are (Jefferson) that is the basis of the severity of punishment. Overall, I’ve grown to like Miles and I hope I can change this answer to a solid YES soon.

LSU v Auburn – Week 8

A very enjoyable experience. I really enjoyed Saturday’s game with yummy food, cold beverages and sharing it all with good friends. I thought LSU played a very complete game, probably the best of the season. Can you believe that it seems this team truly is getting better each week?

Unis

I really like the Nike uniforms. Two year’s ago, not so much, but this year’s version was classic, keeping in line with the sacred tradition that is the LSU uni, with a little something different. I didn’t think I’d be sold on the all white look, but it really didn’t bother me and I like the true gold stripe on the helmet, instead of the full gold helmet of 2009. And the gloves were pretty sweet. Overall, a good look that I wouldn’t mind seeing again. But I’m ready for my classic uni back.

Suspensions

So, I wrote a silly amount about the suspensions above, so I won’t do more here than give my prediction for their availability for the LSU/Bama clash. Pretty much a no-brainer – they’ll be in Tuscaloosa ready to go.

Ware Who?

Hello, my name is Kenny Hilliard. Hellllooo Kenny. And I’m a freakin beast. The true freshman Kenny Hilliard made a serious statement for more carries this week. He bowled over anyone and everyone who dared stumble into his path and made each carry count. Seriously, Magee, what have you done for me lately? Looks like Hilliard is moving on up the depth chart. So, no Ware? No problem.

Mathieu Who?

Ron Brooks made us forget that the Honey Badger was sitting at home eating synthetic pizza drinking Sam’s choice cola. His pick 6 was textbook, though without the HB flash. Who needs the flash when you put 6 on the board? Solid play from a guy who’s been around a while and worked hard for a spot. Sure, he’ll take a backseat to the HB when he returns, but he made the most of his opportunity.

Lull

LSU has had a tendency in each game to fall into a lull at some point in the first three quarters, especially offensively. Sure, they’ve been able to shake themselves out of it before it was a serious problem, but they need to rid themselves of this affliction quick, fast and in a hurry. 60 minutes is 60 minutes. 45 minutes won’t cut it the rest of the way.

Play of the Game

I disagree with CBS and The Advocate. Both named Jefferson’s long TD to Randle as the play of the game (though CBS did also name Lee’s TD as the winner too). I agree that the TD was much needed at the time, and I also agree that the throw and catch were very nice, but Lee’s TD to Randle was the play of the game. This is not a matter of which QB I favor, it’s about these keys: Lee’s pass came in the 2 minute drill, with only 14 points on the board. Lee’s pass was not off a play action to make the safety bite, as Jefferson’s was, it was a longer throw, and there were only 40 seconds left on the clock. No way Jefferson has the composure to lead us to that score in the 2 minute drill. Hell, he almost didn’t get a chance to throw his TD…more on that later.

Defensive Pressure

Hello sacks 1 thru 6…where have you been? The LSU defensive front finally got a chance to T-off against a drop back passer, their 3^rd first-time starter in a row. That poor kid was just harassed all day. It was nice to see our guys have a chance to get some pressure with the front four that caused major disruptions for the AU offense. I look forward to some of the same in the very near future.

BOOM Goes the Dynamite

Nope, my bad, just freshman wide receiver Landry playing special teams. On two kickoffs in a row Landry absolutely LIT UP the AU returner, darn near decapitating him on the second hit. Tell me special teams don’t make a difference in a game and I’ll show you these clips of an offensive player bringing the wood with a big time hit. You want to play at LSU as a freshman, this is how it’s done.

Jefferson

Ugh. I just can’t get on board with the guy. When he seemed to be our only option last year, as much as he infuriated me, I just sucked it up and dealt with it. No more. When Lee, the “alternative”, is playing so well, so steady, Jefferson’s heart-attack inducing decisions are no longer welcome here. His game management continues to be suspect and I just feel uneasy with him in the game. He did actually pitch the ball on the option, but he seems to go to the well too many times. It’s like he’s not reading the play, but executing a call – on this play you pitch it, no matter what.

So, let’s talk about the fumble. The QB is responsible for ball security. It shouldn’t have happened. Sure he fell on it and was bailed out by the facemask penalty, but that is not acceptable. After recovering the fumble JJ looked around for the flag, indicating his facemask was grabbed, which was all well and good, BUT, the facemask didn’t cause the fumble and you are still responsible for THAT action. So, Coach Miles, Michael Ford sits out several games for his faux pas fumble that he recovered…where’s Jefferson’s punishment for a fumble? If history is any indicator, I think the reprimand will be “time served”.

Jefferson’s Mug

Again this week, I noticed Jefferson’s picture was the one to represent the LSU Nike unis on the Fox Sports website. He IS NOT the leader or face of this team. I’m tired of looking at him.

Scary

Think about this for a second. LSU is a young team…I mean really young. Not to get ahead of myself, but if they are this good now, what about next year, minus a QB controversy. Scary.

OOOOOOKlahoma

Well, so much for that. Sure, an upset like that could happen to anyone at anytime, but losing to Tuberville…really? How could you?!?! I feel bad for the Okies but that opens the door for an all SEC National Title game controversy. Who’s with me?

What a Whuppin’

The Saints put an arse whuppin on the Colts Sunday night. That offense looks unstoppable. And every time they’d get the ball back I felt sure they’d just run out the clock…but it was only the third quarter! So they were destined to score again and again…that can’t be considered running up the score! It seems that there won’t be any communication issues with having Payton in the press box. Go Who Dats!

World Series

I’ve taken a liking to the World Series. My hubby is more a baseball guy than football, so he’s been watching the playoffs. So, I guess when I say I’ve taken a “liking” to the WS, it’s more I’ve got no other option b/c that’s what’s on the TV so I guess I’ll enjoy it. In all seriousness these games have been pretty good…for baseball. It’s also nice to cheer for a team, but not really care if they win or lose. So, Go Rangers?

Side note: Does Albert Puljos remind anyone else of Serrano from the movie “Major League”?

#1 v #2

Holy faholy. This could very well be the game of the century, or at least the decade, but definitely of the 2011 season. Even CBS is breaking the rules and moving the game to prime time. The hype that is sure to surround this game will make the BCS Championship game look like a formality. And deservedly so. By far, these are the two best teams in the nation this year, squaring off during the regular season instead of for the national title. Before the talking heads across the nation start weighing in with their opinion of this game, I want to give mine, so it doesn’t look like I’m just regurgitating opinions.

This game is as evenly matched as any game in my recent memory, almost mirror images. Two great, albeit polar opposite, coaches, two strong coaching staffs, and a multitude of talent across the board.

Here’s how I rate the teams, head to head:

Running Game: EVEN-ish

Bama would seem to have the edge with Trent Richardson - he will get at least 100 yards, he’s just that good. But our stable of running backs, along with our dominatingly fast defensive front, gives LSU just as much of a chance in this phase of the game, if not a slight edge. But the offensive line for Bama seems to be more stout that LSU’s. If our O Line gets some rest and is as healthy as they’ve been all year, that is a huge boost for the Tigers.

Passing Game: LSU

The LSU passing game is for real. Jarrett Lee is making really good throws and making good decisions. Ruben Randle is stepping up mightily and Beckham, Jr is legit. Don’t forget about Shepherd or Peterson. Our weapons abound and if we can run the ball with some consistency, and protect Lee, Bama’s DBs will falter. Bama’s passing game is ok and if we can get a little pressure on the QB it could be a long night for him. Of course, we have to load the box to stuff Richardson, and I’m sure that’s exactly what we will do.

Defensive Front: Even

LSU’s LBs aren’t as good as Bama’s but our D-Line is crazy good. Bama’s O Line is big and strong, and we won’t stop Richardson, but he won’t run wild. We’ll key to stop the run and be fairly successful. Bama’s D Line is solid and there are those better LBs. This area is a push.

Defensive Backs: LSU

This is easy. LSU’s secondary is possibly the best in the nation. We go 3 deep everywhere and will be able to use fresh legs for one on one coverage. LSU will stack the box leaving the DBs on an island and I think they can handle anything thrown their way. The big key here is for the LSU DBs to not take too many risks and play solid D. Bama’s DBs are their weak spot. They are not bad, but they are not anywhere close to as good as LSU’s. Smart decisions by Lee/Jefferson should be a recipe for passing success.

Special Teams: LSU

No brainer. Both FG kickers are solid but our punter is stellar. Our coverage is unreal (how about this stat I stole: LSU has only allowed 7 punt return yards…total…all season!) and our kickoffs are sailing out of the end zone. Sure our return game hasn’t done anything spectacular but they are solid and are keeping the Tigers in good starting field position. Bama’s ST squad is solid but that’s about it.

LSU Keys to Victory:

Slow down Richardson

Protect Lee

Block for whoever is our RB

Solid special teams

Sustain drives

Don’t give up long pass plays

Flawless game management

***Pretty simple, right?***

Making CBS our B!T(H

Sorry for the profanity, but seriously, LSU basically gave CBS an ultimatum for the 2012 LSU v Bama game in Baton Rouge. LSU: “The game is at 7 pm. If you want it, you can pick it up, but we’re going at 7 pm and we don’t care if you have an agreement with the SEC to move it to 2:30”. CBS: “Ok, anything you say, whatever you want. And yes, we definitely want to televise it, if that’s ok with you.” B!AT(H!

Prediction

This is as fair of a prediction as I can make. I do give Bama an edge because of home field advantage, but from what I’ve seen of my Tigers, I believe(?) they can pull this off. LSU 24, Bama 17.