Blog Changes:
In case you haven’t noticed, The Samson Report has converted to a once-a-week format coming out late on Wednesday nights. This is much easier on me so get used to it. Also, I’ve begun to moderate the comments section but I don’t want that to stop you from sharing your thoughts. I just wanted a way to delete comments that contributed absolutely nothing to the blog. Also, no anonymous comments will be posted. So tell me what you think, especially if you disagree with me, but make sure you leave your name.
Week 13: November 23, 2007
Arkansas def. (1) LSU, 50-48
Death Valley, Baton Rouge
Game Recap:
I thought by today that I’d be over this loss. I thought my blood pressure would have finally dropped below the dangerous levels that it reached last Friday. Well, thanks to a few bud lights and an entire bottle of Lipitor, I think I’ll be OK. It still hurts and it always will, but we all must learn to live with the fact that we let it slip away. It was in our hands, but we didn’t want it bad enough to hold on.
Offensively, I thought LSU played good enough to win the game. They didn’t set any school records, but they had a solid game plan and the execution was satisfactory. Matt Flynn had an average day throwing the ball but he did what needed to be done to put us in position to win the game. The biggest offensive mistake of the game belongs to Early Doucet. How is it possible that our receivers can’t figure out that you can’t cover up another receiver on the line of scrimmage? This has been a problem EVERY game. Matt Flynn can’t be responsible for checking the position of every player while trying to read the defense. The receivers have struggled with focus and concentration all season. Lining up correctly is not hard, it’s FUNDAMENTAL. They really dropped the ball on this one (pun intended). DJ McCarthy, the WR coach, needs to take some of the heat for this as well. If my position players were consistently making the same mistake over, and over, and over; I would have done whatever was necessary to fix the problem. Jacob Hester had another solid game.
Defensively, what can I say? The once proud LSU defense is no more. I have been in denial about this for several weeks, but it’s time for me to admit to myself that we can no longer trust our defense. They let us down again, and this time it cost us the game. Arkansas is not a great offense. I wouldn’t even call them a good offense. But they do have Darren McFadden. D-Mac, as expected, had another great game and LSU couldn’t stop him. But LSU’s defensive game plan was weak. Pellini should have known that Casey Dick was a below average QB who is very below average when the pressure is on. Why didn’t we blitz?? Why did we give him time to continually throw to the mismatched receiver (usually Danny McCray)? The 4th down conversion in the first overtime will go down in LSU history as one of the most disappointing defensive plays ever. Casey Dick? CASEY DICK?? CASEY %&#@ing DICK????? That’s the person you let beat you?? Pitiful Pellini!!!
This has got to be the most disappointing loss in LSU’s recent history. It’s a very hard pill. LSU had the world by the tail. They controlled their own destiny going into the last week of the regular season. Everything was there for us. Now, everything is lost. Most years, an SEC Championship is an amazing feat. This year, it feels like a consolation prize.
It is natural to place blame, so let’s get to it.
First up …. Bo Pellini, what’s going on? Have you given up on LSU because you’re going to Nebraska? Please tell me because your defense is a joke. You’ve transformed the most feared defense in the country into a national embarrassment. And you did it so quickly.
Neeeeexxxttt …. Les Miles, are you blind (or stupid)? Do you not see the problems this team has? The defense has been in a steady decline for the last 7 weeks. Penalties are killing us and may have cost us the game. Our offensive formations still aren’t right. Our coverage teams are terrible. Your best players are not always on the field. Linebackers can’t drop back into man coverage. Patrick Fisher can’t punt the ball less than 50 yards. And when he does, it gets returned for a touchdown. Etc. Etc. Etc. Make adjustments. Do something different. Go back to what works. Stop being stubborn (or lazy). You ignored the handwriting on the wall for too long. The players, the fans, and most importantly, the seniors deserved a better effort from you and your coaching staff. You and Pellini need to return half of your compensation for last week’s game for that half-ass coaching job.
Whack Stats:
The LSU defense has given up over 1000 yards the last two games against powerhouses Ole Miss and Arkansas. That’s Whack!!!
Coaching Changes:
I’m going to make this short and sweet. Miles is gone to Michigan. Pellini is gone to Nebraska. This WILL be a done deal by this time next week. Also, LSU is reportedly willing to nullify Miles’ buyout clause of $1.25 million if he continues to handle this situation with integrity. The top 3 candidates to replace Miles are: 1) Jack Del Rio, 2) Steve Spurrier, 3) Nick Saban. More to come in the next few days and weeks.
Rumor Mill:
Now that I have your attention, I need to say that the Saban thing is only a rumor at this point. But the same story has surfaced from several different sources. And before you tell me that I am crazy and I don’t know what I’m talking about, just remember who Saban’s agent is. Jimmy Sexton is a coaching pimp. He’s going to throw his clients into every coaching discussion across the country. Rumor has it that Saban has offered to take a long term deal with a huge buyout. Rumor has it that new LSU president John Lombardi favors Steve Spurrier. Rumor has it that Jack Del Rio has put out feelers for the LSU opening. Rumors, Rumors, Rumors… Where there’s smoke, there’s fire. The smoke is getting thicker. By next Monday, we’ll be choking.
BCS Top 10:
1. Missouri
2. West Virginia
3. Ohio St.
4. Georgia
5. Kansas
6. Virginia Tech
7. LSU
8. Southern Cal
9. Oklahoma
10. Florida
Tailgating Season:
Well another tailgating season has come to an end. I thought we had another successful year. The spot was great. The participation was great. The food was great. Thanks to Denis and Travis for everything they did this year.
Week 14: Saturday December 1, 2007
SEC Championship Game
(7) LSU vs. (14) Tennessee
Atlanta, Georgia
CBS 3pm
Point Spread:
LSU -7.5
Know thy Foe:
Head Coach: Phil Fulmer
Tennessee is a team that has improved throughout the season. They started out slow losing 2 of their first 3 games. Their last two games have come down to the last possession including a triple overtime win against Kentucky. They may be emotionally drained but so is LSU.
Week 1: Lost to California, 45-31
Week 2: Defeated Southern Miss, 39-19
Week 3: Lost to Florida, 59-20
Week 4: Defeated Arkansas St., 48-27
Week 5: OFF
Week 6: Defeated Georgia, 35-14
Week 7: Defeated Mississippi St., 33-21
Week 8: Lost to Alabama, 41-17
Week 9: Defeated South Carolina, 27-24
Week 10: Defeated UL Lafayette, 59-7
Week 11: Defeated Arkansas, 34-13
Week 12: Defeated Vanderbilt, 25-24
Week 13: Defeated Kentucky, 52-50
LSU Offense vs. Tennessee Defense:
The injury to Matt Flynn will give Ryan Perrilloux a chance to show us what he’s got. Les Miles has stated that Ryan P has improved greatly since the last time he started the game against Middle Tennessee. The Vols are a good defensive team but they will give up points.
LSU Defense vs. Tennessee Offense:
Eric Ainge is the Vol QB. He is a pretty good passer. He’s got a good offensive line to protect him as well and he’s only been sacked 3 times all season. Lucas Taylor is the favorite target for Ainge. Taylor, a native of LA, leads the league in receiving. Arian Foster is the Vol running back. It’s hard for me to predict this match up because our defense is unpredictable. Maybe the coaches and team will play a little looser with the pressure off.
Game Prediction:
I’m glad we’re playing Tennessee instead of Georgia, but Tennessee is still a very dangerous team. They will want this game more, that’s for sure. LSU is still in a funk after the heartbreaking loss. It will be the coaches’ job to prepare this team mentally and get them ready to win an SEC Championship. There’s still a LOT to play for but that’s not the vibe around town. This game is a big deal to the program. I’m not going to call for the upset, but I don’t have a good feeling about this one.
I’ll take LSU-33, Tennesse-31
Injury Report:
Matt Flynn looks like he’ll be very limited this week and may miss the game entirely due to a shoulder problem. Perrilloux will get the start.
Dorsey is still hampered by a back injury. He will not play very much if at all.
Trindon will play.
Beckwith is not 100% but will play.
Curtis Taylor has been practicing but he’ll be a game time decision after taking a helmet to the ribs in overtime. I really thought he broke his ribs.
Week 14 Games of the Week: (Predicted winners in CAPS)
(1) Missouri vs. (9) OKLAHOMA
(6) VIRGINIA TECH vs. (11) Boston College
(2) WEST VIRGINIA vs. Pitt
(12) Hawaii vs. WASHINGTON
Army vs. NAVY
Lock of the Week:
Arizona St. (-7) vs. Arizona
Upset Special:
Oregon St. (+5) over (17) Oregon
Bowl Scenarios:
If we win:
We will be in the Sugar Bowl. Our opponent will probably be Hawaii if they can beat Washington this weekend. If not, it’ll probably be Illinois. There is still a sliver of hope that we could sneak in the back door of the National Championship game if West Virginia loses to Pitt and Oklahoma beats Missouri. I think OU can beat Mizzou, but West Virginia is going to smoke Pitt like a cigar. Don’t get your hopes up.
If we lose:
We will probably end up in the Cotton Bowl, but there is a chance that we end up in Capital One Bowl against maybe Michigan. That would be interesting to say the least.
Good News:
Ricky Jean Francois will be in the game for the Tigers after being ineligible all season due to academic cheating. He’s been practicing and should be a welcomed addition to a worn down defensive front.
Wednesday, November 28, 2007
Thursday, November 22, 2007
Going Hogging!
Because of the short week, this report will cover the previous game against Ole Miss and the upcoming game against Arkansas.
Week 12: (1) LSU def. Ole Miss, 41-24
Game Recap:
LSU allowed a season high 466 yards to the Ole Miss offense which ranks 97th in the country offensively. That’s not too good. The rebels actually out gained the Tigers, something that hasn’t happened all season. The last time that has happened was last year against …. Arkansas. We won that game too. Coincidentally, Trindon Holliday had a kick-off return in both of those games.
Now back to Ole Miss. LSU once again had a special teams break down allowing a returned punt for a touchdown. The offense was effective and the play calling was appropriate.
As I predicted, LSU didn’t have a good game but it wasn’t a disaster either. Many LSU fans get frustrated about the way LSU is playing. Just remember that LSU is winning. We don’t need style points to get to the National Championship, we need W’s. LSU has been prone to playing down to the opponents’ level of competition. Unfortunately, our opponents have been giving us their best games of the season. I think that’s the reason we’ve haven’t covered the spread to many times this season.
Week 13: Friday November 23, 2007
(1) LSU vs. Arkansas
Death Valley, Baton Rouge
CBS 1:30
Point Spread:
LSU -12.5
Know thy Foe:
Head Coach: Houston Nutt
Houston Nutt is gone after this season. The Arkansas program has been in disarray for almost an entire year. If it weren’t for Darren McFadden and Felix Jones, this Razorback team would be horrendous. This will probably be Nutt’s last game as the Arkansas coach. And no, he will not be a candidate to replace Miles if he leaves.
Week 1: Defeated Troy, 46-26
Week 2: OFF
Week 3: Lost to Alabama, 41-38
Week 4: Lost to Kentucky, 42-29
Week 5: Defeated North Texas, 66-7
Week 6: Defeated Chattanooga, 34-16
Week 7: Lost to Auburn, 9-7
Week 8: Defeated Ole Miss, 44-8
Week 9: Defeated Florida Inter., 58-10
Week 10: Defeated South Carolina, 48-36
Week 11: Lost to Tennessee, 34-13
Week 12: Defeated Mississippi St., 45-31
LSU Offense vs. Arkansas Defense:
Surprisingly, the LSU offense has been the most consistent part of the team lately. They have averaged 450 yards per game so far this season. Arkansas’ defense is giving up over 350 yards per game. LSU will have to play good in the red zone because this Arkansas team is very stingy with the points. They held Auburn, Ole Miss, and Tennessee to less than 30 points combined.
LSU Defense vs. Arkansas Offense:
Obviously LSU will key on Darren McFadden. They won’t stop him, but they should be able to slow him down. Look for Houston Nutt to pull out all the trick plays including letting McFadden pull up and throw the ball over the top. The safeties must not let anyone get behind them at any time. The LSU linebackers must have a good day. I don’t think Luke Sanders will play very much because I think we need the speed of our nickel and dime packages to match up with Arkansas’ running game. I don’t think Arkansas will throw the ball with any consistency against LSU. Arkansas averages 452 yards per game so they are a high powered offense. LSU allows only 255 yards per game. Let’s split the difference and say they get 350 yards against LSU.
Special Teams:
Arkansas has a few weapons that can change the game. LSU must get better here.
Game Prediction:
Arkansas’ open date was the second week of the season. That means they’ve played 10 straight games and they could be worn down. It was a short week of preparation. Plus, it was filled with outside distractions for LSU. Still, the LSU team knows what’s at stake. They have too many seniors on that team. They’ll be ready. They’ll be focused and prepared. It may not be pretty, but LSU will win this game.
I’ll take LSU 44-31.
Injury Report:
There are a lot of bumps and bruises, especially on defense. Dorsey sat out the end of the Ole Miss game to a leg and back injury, but he should play most of the Arkansas game. Darry Beckwith probably won’t play while still recovering from the knee scope. Trindon Holliday twisted his ankle but I think he’ll be back. Curtis Taylor also limped off the field in Oxford but he’s ok as well.
Senior Day:
Since Friday will be Senior Day, check out some of the accomplishments of this senior class:
Most wins in school history (54)
Most SEC wins (32)
Most seasons with at least 10 wins (4)
Most weeks as a ranked team (80)
Most wins over top 25 teams (19)
Most wins over top 10 teams (9)
Here is the Senior Class:
Will Arnold
Donnie Chaucer
Mit Cole
Andrew Decker
Glenn Dorsey
Early Doucet
Patrick Fisher
Matt Flynn
Sean Gaudet
Jacob Hester
Ali Highsmith
Chevis Jackson
Shawn Jordan
Cole Louviere
Josh McManus
Jacob O’Hair
Kirston Pittman
Luke Sanders
Robert Smith
Craig Steltz
Carnell Stewart
Jimmy Welker
Anthony Zehyoue
Jonathan Zenon
Keith Zinger
Thanks Fellas!!!
Week 13 (Rivalry Week) Games of the Week: (Predicted Winners in CAPS)
Ole Miss @ MISSISSIPPI ST.
(2) Kansas vs. (4) MISSOURI (neutral field)
(22) CLEMSON @ South Carolina
(18) TENNESSEE @ Kentucky
Alabama @ AUBURN
(9) GEORGIA @ Georgia Tech
Florida St. @ (12) FLORIDA
Oklahoma St. @ (10) OKLAHOMA
Lock of the Week:
(8) Virginia Tech (-3.5) @ (16) Virginia
Upset Special:
(6) Arizona St. (+3.5) over (11) Southern Cal (This game is on Thursday, don’t miss it)
Looking ahead:
LSU will be playing in the SEC championship next Saturday. Their opponent from the East has not yet been decided. If Tennessee can beat Kentucky this week, they’re in. If they lose to Kentucky, we will play Georgia for the 3rd straight time. I, along with most people, would much rather play Tennessee since Georgia is playing some really good football right now. They’re dangerous. Tennessee is actually a 3 point underdog to Kentucky since the game is in Lexington. Geaux Vols!
What if we lose???
Assuming we beat Arkansas, LSU will be heading into the SEC Championship game ranked #1 with an 11-1 record. If we lose the SEC championship game, chances are very strong that we end up filling an at-large spot in one of the BCS bowl games. It won’t be the Rose Bowl. It won’t be the Sugar Bowl. That leaves the Fiesta Bowl and the Orange Bowl. So, would you rather go to Tempe Arizona or Miami Florida???
Dirty Sexy Money:
Les Miles has a lot of motivation to win a national championship for LSU. Like Saban, Miles has terms in his contract that dramatically increase his base salary if he wins the title. Specifically, LSU will be contractually obligated to pay Miles around 3.5 million dollars per year for the next 5 years.
Also, Miles is bound to a $1,250,000 buyout if he were to leave LSU for Meeeeechigan. The Wolverines could pay that without second thought.
March for Miles:
Last night was the “March for Miles” which consisted of about 50 or 60 LSU fans. They walked from the stadium to Walk-Ons in support of Les Miles. It started as an internet movement but gained some credibility when it made it to the Advocate and the local news. Kinda funny.
More support…
This Friday has been deemed “Fear the Hat Friday”. If you want to join the growing support for Miles, wear your biggest white LSU hat on Friday.
Coaching Change?
The rumors are really flying now. We knew this day would come and it is here. I’ll address this situation in detail in my next report. I’ll tell you what I think will happen and I’ll try to give you a few coaching possibilities if we need to replace Miles.
Week 12: (1) LSU def. Ole Miss, 41-24
Game Recap:
LSU allowed a season high 466 yards to the Ole Miss offense which ranks 97th in the country offensively. That’s not too good. The rebels actually out gained the Tigers, something that hasn’t happened all season. The last time that has happened was last year against …. Arkansas. We won that game too. Coincidentally, Trindon Holliday had a kick-off return in both of those games.
Now back to Ole Miss. LSU once again had a special teams break down allowing a returned punt for a touchdown. The offense was effective and the play calling was appropriate.
As I predicted, LSU didn’t have a good game but it wasn’t a disaster either. Many LSU fans get frustrated about the way LSU is playing. Just remember that LSU is winning. We don’t need style points to get to the National Championship, we need W’s. LSU has been prone to playing down to the opponents’ level of competition. Unfortunately, our opponents have been giving us their best games of the season. I think that’s the reason we’ve haven’t covered the spread to many times this season.
Week 13: Friday November 23, 2007
(1) LSU vs. Arkansas
Death Valley, Baton Rouge
CBS 1:30
Point Spread:
LSU -12.5
Know thy Foe:
Head Coach: Houston Nutt
Houston Nutt is gone after this season. The Arkansas program has been in disarray for almost an entire year. If it weren’t for Darren McFadden and Felix Jones, this Razorback team would be horrendous. This will probably be Nutt’s last game as the Arkansas coach. And no, he will not be a candidate to replace Miles if he leaves.
Week 1: Defeated Troy, 46-26
Week 2: OFF
Week 3: Lost to Alabama, 41-38
Week 4: Lost to Kentucky, 42-29
Week 5: Defeated North Texas, 66-7
Week 6: Defeated Chattanooga, 34-16
Week 7: Lost to Auburn, 9-7
Week 8: Defeated Ole Miss, 44-8
Week 9: Defeated Florida Inter., 58-10
Week 10: Defeated South Carolina, 48-36
Week 11: Lost to Tennessee, 34-13
Week 12: Defeated Mississippi St., 45-31
LSU Offense vs. Arkansas Defense:
Surprisingly, the LSU offense has been the most consistent part of the team lately. They have averaged 450 yards per game so far this season. Arkansas’ defense is giving up over 350 yards per game. LSU will have to play good in the red zone because this Arkansas team is very stingy with the points. They held Auburn, Ole Miss, and Tennessee to less than 30 points combined.
LSU Defense vs. Arkansas Offense:
Obviously LSU will key on Darren McFadden. They won’t stop him, but they should be able to slow him down. Look for Houston Nutt to pull out all the trick plays including letting McFadden pull up and throw the ball over the top. The safeties must not let anyone get behind them at any time. The LSU linebackers must have a good day. I don’t think Luke Sanders will play very much because I think we need the speed of our nickel and dime packages to match up with Arkansas’ running game. I don’t think Arkansas will throw the ball with any consistency against LSU. Arkansas averages 452 yards per game so they are a high powered offense. LSU allows only 255 yards per game. Let’s split the difference and say they get 350 yards against LSU.
Special Teams:
Arkansas has a few weapons that can change the game. LSU must get better here.
Game Prediction:
Arkansas’ open date was the second week of the season. That means they’ve played 10 straight games and they could be worn down. It was a short week of preparation. Plus, it was filled with outside distractions for LSU. Still, the LSU team knows what’s at stake. They have too many seniors on that team. They’ll be ready. They’ll be focused and prepared. It may not be pretty, but LSU will win this game.
I’ll take LSU 44-31.
Injury Report:
There are a lot of bumps and bruises, especially on defense. Dorsey sat out the end of the Ole Miss game to a leg and back injury, but he should play most of the Arkansas game. Darry Beckwith probably won’t play while still recovering from the knee scope. Trindon Holliday twisted his ankle but I think he’ll be back. Curtis Taylor also limped off the field in Oxford but he’s ok as well.
Senior Day:
Since Friday will be Senior Day, check out some of the accomplishments of this senior class:
Most wins in school history (54)
Most SEC wins (32)
Most seasons with at least 10 wins (4)
Most weeks as a ranked team (80)
Most wins over top 25 teams (19)
Most wins over top 10 teams (9)
Here is the Senior Class:
Will Arnold
Donnie Chaucer
Mit Cole
Andrew Decker
Glenn Dorsey
Early Doucet
Patrick Fisher
Matt Flynn
Sean Gaudet
Jacob Hester
Ali Highsmith
Chevis Jackson
Shawn Jordan
Cole Louviere
Josh McManus
Jacob O’Hair
Kirston Pittman
Luke Sanders
Robert Smith
Craig Steltz
Carnell Stewart
Jimmy Welker
Anthony Zehyoue
Jonathan Zenon
Keith Zinger
Thanks Fellas!!!
Week 13 (Rivalry Week) Games of the Week: (Predicted Winners in CAPS)
Ole Miss @ MISSISSIPPI ST.
(2) Kansas vs. (4) MISSOURI (neutral field)
(22) CLEMSON @ South Carolina
(18) TENNESSEE @ Kentucky
Alabama @ AUBURN
(9) GEORGIA @ Georgia Tech
Florida St. @ (12) FLORIDA
Oklahoma St. @ (10) OKLAHOMA
Lock of the Week:
(8) Virginia Tech (-3.5) @ (16) Virginia
Upset Special:
(6) Arizona St. (+3.5) over (11) Southern Cal (This game is on Thursday, don’t miss it)
Looking ahead:
LSU will be playing in the SEC championship next Saturday. Their opponent from the East has not yet been decided. If Tennessee can beat Kentucky this week, they’re in. If they lose to Kentucky, we will play Georgia for the 3rd straight time. I, along with most people, would much rather play Tennessee since Georgia is playing some really good football right now. They’re dangerous. Tennessee is actually a 3 point underdog to Kentucky since the game is in Lexington. Geaux Vols!
What if we lose???
Assuming we beat Arkansas, LSU will be heading into the SEC Championship game ranked #1 with an 11-1 record. If we lose the SEC championship game, chances are very strong that we end up filling an at-large spot in one of the BCS bowl games. It won’t be the Rose Bowl. It won’t be the Sugar Bowl. That leaves the Fiesta Bowl and the Orange Bowl. So, would you rather go to Tempe Arizona or Miami Florida???
Dirty Sexy Money:
Les Miles has a lot of motivation to win a national championship for LSU. Like Saban, Miles has terms in his contract that dramatically increase his base salary if he wins the title. Specifically, LSU will be contractually obligated to pay Miles around 3.5 million dollars per year for the next 5 years.
Also, Miles is bound to a $1,250,000 buyout if he were to leave LSU for Meeeeechigan. The Wolverines could pay that without second thought.
March for Miles:
Last night was the “March for Miles” which consisted of about 50 or 60 LSU fans. They walked from the stadium to Walk-Ons in support of Les Miles. It started as an internet movement but gained some credibility when it made it to the Advocate and the local news. Kinda funny.
More support…
This Friday has been deemed “Fear the Hat Friday”. If you want to join the growing support for Miles, wear your biggest white LSU hat on Friday.
Coaching Change?
The rumors are really flying now. We knew this day would come and it is here. I’ll address this situation in detail in my next report. I’ll tell you what I think will happen and I’ll try to give you a few coaching possibilities if we need to replace Miles.
Friday, November 16, 2007
SEC Runts!
As you know, The Samson Report was not updated after the Louisiana Tech game. I was very busy this week and couldn’t get around to doing a report. Let me say that I think LSU had a good game against Tech but they got off to a slow start. For only the second time in the Les Miles era, they scored over 50 points so that was good. It was a very boring game and I couldn’t have loved it more.
Week 12: November 17, 2007
(1) LSU vs. Ole Miss
Vaught-Hemmingway Stadium, Oxford, Mississippi
2:30 CBS
Point Spread:
LSU (-18.5)
Know Thy Foe:
Head Coach: Ed Orgeron
Ole Miss is bad, even by Ole Miss standards. They are dead last in the following SEC categories: scoring offense, scoring defense, total defense, and turnover margin. In fact, out of the 11 statistical categories, Ole Miss is last in 7 of them and no better than seventh of the remaining 4.
Last year they only won 2 conference games. With LSU and MSU still left to play, Ole Miss still doesn’t have a conference win yet this season. Ole Miss has lost 11 straight conference games. That’s pretty bad. To make things worse, they only had 23,000 PAID attendance at last weeks game against NW State. Ole Miss is the only school in the SEC West never to reach the SEC Championship game.
Ed Orgeron has a big personality, but he’s not much of a coach. His specialty is recruiting but he hasn’t had much success with that either. He is 10-23 since he’s been in Oxford for a winning percentage of 30.3 %. I don’t think he’ll be fired after this year but he’s toast next year. He hates LSU with a passion even though he’s from south Louisiana. He actually was on LSU’s team for a brief period of time. Maybe he still harbors hard feelings.
Despite the fact that Ole Miss is a pathetic football team, they will have the emotional advantage on Saturday. They are sky high to host the #1 team in the land. They always give LSU a good game and that’s got me a little worried. Don’t forget last year when they took us to overtime in our own stadium. LSU was a four touchdown favorite in that game. Ole Miss hates LSU. They would love nothing more than to spoil our championship season. They have enough talent to upset us if we’re not ready to play. In fact, they gave Florida and Alabama all they could handle.
Week 1: Defeated Memphis, 23-21
Week 2: Lost to Missouri, 38-25
Week 3: Lost to Vanderbilt, 31-17
Week 4: Lost to Florida, 30-24
Week 5: Lost to Georgia, 45-17
Week 6: Defeated Louisiana Tech, 24-0
Week 7: Lost to Alabama, 27-24
Week 8: Lost to Arkansas, 44-8
Week 9: Lost to Auburn, 17-3
Week 10: Defeated NW State, 38-31
Week 11: OFF
Tiger Offense vs. Rebel Defense:
LSU’s offense has proven that they are as good as they want to be. Play calling and focus will determine LSU’s offensive success, not the competition. The Rebel defense hasn’t shown the ability to stop anyone, much less the studs wearing purple and gold. I think LSU will tally 450 yards of total offense.
Rebel Offense vs. Tiger Defense:
Running back Benjarvus Green-Ellis is the best player on the Ole Miss offense. LSU should be able to snuff out the running game like they’ve done all season. Robert Lane is the Ole Miss tight end who started his career as a quarterback. In fact, he was committed to LSU until Nick Saban was able to sign an Alabama QB by the name of Jamarcus Russell. He is very athletic and will be a factor in this game. Seth Adams will be the starting QB but he may give way to Brent Shaeffer before the game is through. Ole Miss will gain no more than 240 yards total offense.
Special Teams:
This area of the team needs some major improvements. The return yardage that LSU gives up on kickoffs is mind blowing. Peveto better fix the problems before we get burned.
Game Prediction:
Ole Miss hasn’t beaten a top 5 team in over 30 years (Notre Dame, 1977). This is not the week that they reverse that trend. I think that LSU will play an average game. Not too good, not too bad. That’ll be all we need to leave Oxford with a win. Ole Miss will play their best game of the season but it won’t matter much. Hoddy Toddy!
I’ll take LSU-38, Ole Miss-13.
Injury Report:
LB Darry Beckwith will miss another week while rehabbing his scoped knee. He should be good to go against Arkansas.
OG Will Arnold is also listed as doubtful for the game. This guy just can’t stay healthy.
DT Marlon Favorite should be back after missing the La Tech game.
Rivalry???
Is this game still a rivalry?? LSU vs. Ole Miss goes all the way back to 1894. The rivalry was intense in the late 50’s and 60’s. That was a long time ago. Ole Miss hasn’t won the SEC since Colonel Reb was in diapers. The rivalry is dead. Ole Miss and Mississippi State can battle for the western cellar each year in the Egg Bowl.
Week 12 Games of the Week: (Predicted winner in CAPS)
Iowa St. @ (4) KANSAS
(22) Kentucky @ (8) GEORGIA
Miami @ (10) VIRGINIA TECH
Vanderbilt @ (19) TENNESSEE
Lock of the Week: (3-6)
(3) OKLAHOMA (-9) @ Texas Tech
Upset Special: (5-6)
(7) Ohio St. (-4) @ (23) MICHIGAN
Week 12: November 17, 2007
(1) LSU vs. Ole Miss
Vaught-Hemmingway Stadium, Oxford, Mississippi
2:30 CBS
Point Spread:
LSU (-18.5)
Know Thy Foe:
Head Coach: Ed Orgeron
Ole Miss is bad, even by Ole Miss standards. They are dead last in the following SEC categories: scoring offense, scoring defense, total defense, and turnover margin. In fact, out of the 11 statistical categories, Ole Miss is last in 7 of them and no better than seventh of the remaining 4.
Last year they only won 2 conference games. With LSU and MSU still left to play, Ole Miss still doesn’t have a conference win yet this season. Ole Miss has lost 11 straight conference games. That’s pretty bad. To make things worse, they only had 23,000 PAID attendance at last weeks game against NW State. Ole Miss is the only school in the SEC West never to reach the SEC Championship game.
Ed Orgeron has a big personality, but he’s not much of a coach. His specialty is recruiting but he hasn’t had much success with that either. He is 10-23 since he’s been in Oxford for a winning percentage of 30.3 %. I don’t think he’ll be fired after this year but he’s toast next year. He hates LSU with a passion even though he’s from south Louisiana. He actually was on LSU’s team for a brief period of time. Maybe he still harbors hard feelings.
Despite the fact that Ole Miss is a pathetic football team, they will have the emotional advantage on Saturday. They are sky high to host the #1 team in the land. They always give LSU a good game and that’s got me a little worried. Don’t forget last year when they took us to overtime in our own stadium. LSU was a four touchdown favorite in that game. Ole Miss hates LSU. They would love nothing more than to spoil our championship season. They have enough talent to upset us if we’re not ready to play. In fact, they gave Florida and Alabama all they could handle.
Week 1: Defeated Memphis, 23-21
Week 2: Lost to Missouri, 38-25
Week 3: Lost to Vanderbilt, 31-17
Week 4: Lost to Florida, 30-24
Week 5: Lost to Georgia, 45-17
Week 6: Defeated Louisiana Tech, 24-0
Week 7: Lost to Alabama, 27-24
Week 8: Lost to Arkansas, 44-8
Week 9: Lost to Auburn, 17-3
Week 10: Defeated NW State, 38-31
Week 11: OFF
Tiger Offense vs. Rebel Defense:
LSU’s offense has proven that they are as good as they want to be. Play calling and focus will determine LSU’s offensive success, not the competition. The Rebel defense hasn’t shown the ability to stop anyone, much less the studs wearing purple and gold. I think LSU will tally 450 yards of total offense.
Rebel Offense vs. Tiger Defense:
Running back Benjarvus Green-Ellis is the best player on the Ole Miss offense. LSU should be able to snuff out the running game like they’ve done all season. Robert Lane is the Ole Miss tight end who started his career as a quarterback. In fact, he was committed to LSU until Nick Saban was able to sign an Alabama QB by the name of Jamarcus Russell. He is very athletic and will be a factor in this game. Seth Adams will be the starting QB but he may give way to Brent Shaeffer before the game is through. Ole Miss will gain no more than 240 yards total offense.
Special Teams:
This area of the team needs some major improvements. The return yardage that LSU gives up on kickoffs is mind blowing. Peveto better fix the problems before we get burned.
Game Prediction:
Ole Miss hasn’t beaten a top 5 team in over 30 years (Notre Dame, 1977). This is not the week that they reverse that trend. I think that LSU will play an average game. Not too good, not too bad. That’ll be all we need to leave Oxford with a win. Ole Miss will play their best game of the season but it won’t matter much. Hoddy Toddy!
I’ll take LSU-38, Ole Miss-13.
Injury Report:
LB Darry Beckwith will miss another week while rehabbing his scoped knee. He should be good to go against Arkansas.
OG Will Arnold is also listed as doubtful for the game. This guy just can’t stay healthy.
DT Marlon Favorite should be back after missing the La Tech game.
Rivalry???
Is this game still a rivalry?? LSU vs. Ole Miss goes all the way back to 1894. The rivalry was intense in the late 50’s and 60’s. That was a long time ago. Ole Miss hasn’t won the SEC since Colonel Reb was in diapers. The rivalry is dead. Ole Miss and Mississippi State can battle for the western cellar each year in the Egg Bowl.
Week 12 Games of the Week: (Predicted winner in CAPS)
Iowa St. @ (4) KANSAS
(22) Kentucky @ (8) GEORGIA
Miami @ (10) VIRGINIA TECH
Vanderbilt @ (19) TENNESSEE
Lock of the Week: (3-6)
(3) OKLAHOMA (-9) @ Texas Tech
Upset Special: (5-6)
(7) Ohio St. (-4) @ (23) MICHIGAN
Friday, November 9, 2007
Who Let the Dogs Out?
Week 11: November 10, 2007
(2) LSU vs. LA Tech
Death Valley, Baton Rouge
Tigervision 7pm
This report will be very short and sweet because I’ve been very busy and I have to go to a wedding in a few hours.
Point Spread:
LSU (-36)
Know Thy Foe:
Head Coach: Derek Dooley
LA Tech has a loosing record to this point in the year. They have won their last 2 games but they just don’t have the players to compete with the big teams. They are in the WAC Conference which is kinda weird. I’d like to see them join Conference USA or the Sun Belt. Their closest conference rival is way out west. Their first year head coach, Derek Dooley, was an assistant at LSU under Saban. His dad, Vince, is also a coaching legend at Georgia. LSU offensive coordinator Gary Crowton coached at LA Tech in the late 90’s when Tim Rattay and Troy Edwards were putting up sick numbers. Offensive lineman Lyll Hitt has a brother that plays for Tech and Tyson Jackson’s cousin plays for Tech. The last time LSU played Tech was in 2003 when LSU won 49-10 on their way to a national title.
Week 1: Defeated Central Arkansas, 28-7
Week 2: Lost to Hawaii, 45-44
Week 3: Lost to California, 42-12
Week 4: OFF
Week 5: Lost to Fresno St., 17-6
Week 6: Lost to Ole Miss, 24-0
Week 7: Defeated N Mexico St., 22-21
Week 8: Lost to Boise St., 45-31
Week 9: Defeated Utah State, 31-21
Week 10: Defeated Idaho, 28-16
LSU Offense vs. LA Tech Defense:
I expect to see a good mix of run and pass to control the clock. Ryan Perrilloux may get back into the game at some point after not making the trip to Bama. It will be a very balanced and methodical attack.
LA Tech Offense vs. LSU Defense:
The playmakers on Tech’s offense are QB Zac Champion and RB Patrick Jackson.
The Bulldog offense has averaged 473 yards in the last 3 games. Not bad. I’d be surprised if they break 200 yards on Saturday.
Game Prediction:
LSU is far superior to the Bulldogs on every level. They should have no problem winning, even when the backups get in the game starting in the second quarter. I think the starters would benefit from a rest this Saturday night after the game is in hand. Les Miles should use this game to enforce some discipline on the penalty front. If you make a penalty, you sit on the bench for the rest of the series. If you make a personal foul, have a seat for the rest of the quarter. If you take your helmet off on the field, hit the showers. These things send a message to the players, a message that has apparently gone in one ear and out the other.
LSU runs away with this one.
I’ll take LSU-42, LA Tech-6
Injury Report:
Darry Beckwith will not play and may not play against the Rebels next week.
Coach of the Year???
Les Miles has been nominated to the 16 man watch list for the 2007 Paul “Bear” Bryant coach of the year award.
Week 11 Games of the Week: (Predicted winners in CAPS)
Arkansas @ (22) TENNESSEE
(13) MICHIGAN @ Wisconsin
Illinois @ (1) OHIO ST.
Florida St. @ (11) VIRGINIA TECH
(8) BOSTON COLLEGE @ Maryland
(18) FLORIDA @ South Carolina
(12) SOUTHERN CAL @ (24) California
Lock of the Week: (3-5)
(21) Alabama (-4.5) @ Mississippi St.
Upset Special: (5-5)
(17) Auburn (+2) @ (10) Georgia
(2) LSU vs. LA Tech
Death Valley, Baton Rouge
Tigervision 7pm
This report will be very short and sweet because I’ve been very busy and I have to go to a wedding in a few hours.
Point Spread:
LSU (-36)
Know Thy Foe:
Head Coach: Derek Dooley
LA Tech has a loosing record to this point in the year. They have won their last 2 games but they just don’t have the players to compete with the big teams. They are in the WAC Conference which is kinda weird. I’d like to see them join Conference USA or the Sun Belt. Their closest conference rival is way out west. Their first year head coach, Derek Dooley, was an assistant at LSU under Saban. His dad, Vince, is also a coaching legend at Georgia. LSU offensive coordinator Gary Crowton coached at LA Tech in the late 90’s when Tim Rattay and Troy Edwards were putting up sick numbers. Offensive lineman Lyll Hitt has a brother that plays for Tech and Tyson Jackson’s cousin plays for Tech. The last time LSU played Tech was in 2003 when LSU won 49-10 on their way to a national title.
Week 1: Defeated Central Arkansas, 28-7
Week 2: Lost to Hawaii, 45-44
Week 3: Lost to California, 42-12
Week 4: OFF
Week 5: Lost to Fresno St., 17-6
Week 6: Lost to Ole Miss, 24-0
Week 7: Defeated N Mexico St., 22-21
Week 8: Lost to Boise St., 45-31
Week 9: Defeated Utah State, 31-21
Week 10: Defeated Idaho, 28-16
LSU Offense vs. LA Tech Defense:
I expect to see a good mix of run and pass to control the clock. Ryan Perrilloux may get back into the game at some point after not making the trip to Bama. It will be a very balanced and methodical attack.
LA Tech Offense vs. LSU Defense:
The playmakers on Tech’s offense are QB Zac Champion and RB Patrick Jackson.
The Bulldog offense has averaged 473 yards in the last 3 games. Not bad. I’d be surprised if they break 200 yards on Saturday.
Game Prediction:
LSU is far superior to the Bulldogs on every level. They should have no problem winning, even when the backups get in the game starting in the second quarter. I think the starters would benefit from a rest this Saturday night after the game is in hand. Les Miles should use this game to enforce some discipline on the penalty front. If you make a penalty, you sit on the bench for the rest of the series. If you make a personal foul, have a seat for the rest of the quarter. If you take your helmet off on the field, hit the showers. These things send a message to the players, a message that has apparently gone in one ear and out the other.
LSU runs away with this one.
I’ll take LSU-42, LA Tech-6
Injury Report:
Darry Beckwith will not play and may not play against the Rebels next week.
Coach of the Year???
Les Miles has been nominated to the 16 man watch list for the 2007 Paul “Bear” Bryant coach of the year award.
Week 11 Games of the Week: (Predicted winners in CAPS)
Arkansas @ (22) TENNESSEE
(13) MICHIGAN @ Wisconsin
Illinois @ (1) OHIO ST.
Florida St. @ (11) VIRGINIA TECH
(8) BOSTON COLLEGE @ Maryland
(18) FLORIDA @ South Carolina
(12) SOUTHERN CAL @ (24) California
Lock of the Week: (3-5)
(21) Alabama (-4.5) @ Mississippi St.
Upset Special: (5-5)
(17) Auburn (+2) @ (10) Georgia
Tuesday, November 6, 2007
Roll Tigers!
Week 10: November 3, 2007
(3) LSU defeats (17) Alabama, 41-34
Bryant Denny Stadium, Tuscaloosa, AL
Game Recap:
It was another thriller as LSU secured their 5th straight win over Alabama. LSU was their own worst enemy in a game that shouldn’t have come down to yet another 4th down conversion. But it did, and LSU once again showed that they are holding better cards when the chips are on the table. The familiar combination of Flynn-Doucet once again bailed out the Tiger’s and saved Les Miles from having a lot of explaining to do. Statistically, LSU dominated the game. But the scoreboard doesn’t keep track of statistics. LSU played well enough in the first quarter to win this game by 20 points. Instead, they completely botched the second quarter, giving Bama new life. When they had the chance to deliver the crushing blow, they wiffed. When will they string together 4 quarters of mistake free football like they did against Virginia Tech?
Penalties, Turnovers, and Big Plays. That was the name of this game. LSU was flagged a ridiculous 14 times for an unbelievable 130 yards. LSU is by far the most penalized team in the SEC and one of the top offenders in the country. This has got to stop if LSU wants to hoist the crystal ball in January. Matt Flynn was up and down. He had 3 interceptions but also threw for a career high 353 yards passing and 3 touchdowns. He even had a 35 yard reception from Early Doucet. Stats aside, Flynn has looked like a great leader on the field in clutch situations. His winning attitude and quiet confidence seem to inspire the offense to mount these late game comebacks. Defensively, LSU had an outstanding game. They gave up a few big plays, but they brought pressure all night recording seven sacks. One of those sacks was directly responsible for LSU’s game winning score. I was impressed that LSU was able to force a lot of 3rd and long situations. Bama was only 4 of 17 on third down against an LSU defense that has not been particularly good on 3rd down as of late. LSU’s special teams were a mess. LSU had a blocked FG and allowed a punt return. Those were two game changing plays. Why were we kicking to Arenas? I don’t know. Why are our coverage teams having so much trouble this year when last year they were lights out? I don’t know. When will these mistakes cost us a game? I don’t want to know.
Game Stats:
Rushing: LSU-87 , BAMA-20
Passing: LSU-388 , BAMA-234
Total: LSU-475 , BAMA-254
Game Balls:
Offense: Demetrius Byrd. 6 catches for 144 yards. Enough said.
Defense: Chad Jones. Keep this up Chad and you may be known as a better safety than Laron Landry when it’s all over.
Honorable Mention: Kirston Pittman also had a great game.
SEC Honors:
Even though he didn’t get the coveted Samson Game Ball, Glenn Dorsey did receive SEC Defensive Player of the Week honors from the conference.
Injuries:
The most severe injury from the Alabama game is Darry Beckwith’s knee. He has some scar tissue in his knee that required arthroscopic surgery earlier this week. He will not play this week and may miss the Ole Miss game as well.
Alabama Trip Summary:
For those of you that couldn’t make the trip to Bama, you missed a good time. We arrived in Tuscaloosa on Friday around 1 pm, just in time to grab some ribs at the famous Dreamland BBQ. The food was a little overrated, but it was still good. Friday night we stayed in Birmingham and didn’t really do much. We drove through downtown B’Ham for over an hour looking for some nightlife, but it was completely dead. Eventually we found the only restaurant/bar open at 9 pm so we stopped in for a while. It was a pretty boring night. Saturday morning we arrived in Tuscaloosa about 8 am and we tailgated at the quad till gametime. The tailgating scene at Alabama is nice but it’s very low key. It’s not a party atmosphere like you’ll find at LSU. The people were very nice and welcoming, which was somewhat surprising. I expected to get some heckling, but got none. That was, until we went to the Houndstooth Bar to watch the game. I don’t think they liked us very much there. It was mostly Bama fans, even though I found out later that there were several other bars that were LSU dominated. We weren’t being complete a-holes, just cheering for our team, but we had a few drunken Bammers that gave us some crap. Even though we were with mostly Bama fans, it was kinda fun to see the place go silent after the game. The streets after the game were filled with rowdy Tigers. Several dance parties erupted in the streets. I have to admit, I did a little dancing myself. Overall, it was a great trip and I will definitely go back.
Did you know?
The last time LSU allowed 4 consecutive teams to score 24 or more points was in 1992. LSU lost all 4 of those games.
Did you know part II?
Les Miles is the only LSU coach to go 3-0 vs. Alabama. He and Saban are the only 2 LSU coaches to beat Bama 3 times.
Week 8 Games of the Week:
Virginia Tech def. Georgia Tech, 27-3
Arkansas def. South Carolina, 48-36
Navy def. Notre Dame, 46-44
Oregon def. Arizona St., 35-23
Kansas def. Nebraska, 76-39
Ohio St. def. Wisconsin, 38-17
Florida St. def. Boston College, 27-17
Oklahoma def. Texas A&M, 42-14
Rankings:
Here are the updated top 10 BCS rankings:
1. Ohio St.
2. LSU
3. Oregon
4. Kansas
5. Oklahoma
6. Missouri
7. West Virginia
8. Boston College
9. Arizona St.
10. Georgia
The SEC currently holds seven spots in the top 25.
Whack Stats:
Alabama was only penalized twice for 15 yards. That’s Whack!!
Krysal Burger forgot Ty’s food. That’s Whack!!!
Notes:
LSU vs. Ole Miss will be shown on CBS at 2:30.
(3) LSU defeats (17) Alabama, 41-34
Bryant Denny Stadium, Tuscaloosa, AL
Game Recap:
It was another thriller as LSU secured their 5th straight win over Alabama. LSU was their own worst enemy in a game that shouldn’t have come down to yet another 4th down conversion. But it did, and LSU once again showed that they are holding better cards when the chips are on the table. The familiar combination of Flynn-Doucet once again bailed out the Tiger’s and saved Les Miles from having a lot of explaining to do. Statistically, LSU dominated the game. But the scoreboard doesn’t keep track of statistics. LSU played well enough in the first quarter to win this game by 20 points. Instead, they completely botched the second quarter, giving Bama new life. When they had the chance to deliver the crushing blow, they wiffed. When will they string together 4 quarters of mistake free football like they did against Virginia Tech?
Penalties, Turnovers, and Big Plays. That was the name of this game. LSU was flagged a ridiculous 14 times for an unbelievable 130 yards. LSU is by far the most penalized team in the SEC and one of the top offenders in the country. This has got to stop if LSU wants to hoist the crystal ball in January. Matt Flynn was up and down. He had 3 interceptions but also threw for a career high 353 yards passing and 3 touchdowns. He even had a 35 yard reception from Early Doucet. Stats aside, Flynn has looked like a great leader on the field in clutch situations. His winning attitude and quiet confidence seem to inspire the offense to mount these late game comebacks. Defensively, LSU had an outstanding game. They gave up a few big plays, but they brought pressure all night recording seven sacks. One of those sacks was directly responsible for LSU’s game winning score. I was impressed that LSU was able to force a lot of 3rd and long situations. Bama was only 4 of 17 on third down against an LSU defense that has not been particularly good on 3rd down as of late. LSU’s special teams were a mess. LSU had a blocked FG and allowed a punt return. Those were two game changing plays. Why were we kicking to Arenas? I don’t know. Why are our coverage teams having so much trouble this year when last year they were lights out? I don’t know. When will these mistakes cost us a game? I don’t want to know.
Game Stats:
Rushing: LSU-87 , BAMA-20
Passing: LSU-388 , BAMA-234
Total: LSU-475 , BAMA-254
Game Balls:
Offense: Demetrius Byrd. 6 catches for 144 yards. Enough said.
Defense: Chad Jones. Keep this up Chad and you may be known as a better safety than Laron Landry when it’s all over.
Honorable Mention: Kirston Pittman also had a great game.
SEC Honors:
Even though he didn’t get the coveted Samson Game Ball, Glenn Dorsey did receive SEC Defensive Player of the Week honors from the conference.
Injuries:
The most severe injury from the Alabama game is Darry Beckwith’s knee. He has some scar tissue in his knee that required arthroscopic surgery earlier this week. He will not play this week and may miss the Ole Miss game as well.
Alabama Trip Summary:
For those of you that couldn’t make the trip to Bama, you missed a good time. We arrived in Tuscaloosa on Friday around 1 pm, just in time to grab some ribs at the famous Dreamland BBQ. The food was a little overrated, but it was still good. Friday night we stayed in Birmingham and didn’t really do much. We drove through downtown B’Ham for over an hour looking for some nightlife, but it was completely dead. Eventually we found the only restaurant/bar open at 9 pm so we stopped in for a while. It was a pretty boring night. Saturday morning we arrived in Tuscaloosa about 8 am and we tailgated at the quad till gametime. The tailgating scene at Alabama is nice but it’s very low key. It’s not a party atmosphere like you’ll find at LSU. The people were very nice and welcoming, which was somewhat surprising. I expected to get some heckling, but got none. That was, until we went to the Houndstooth Bar to watch the game. I don’t think they liked us very much there. It was mostly Bama fans, even though I found out later that there were several other bars that were LSU dominated. We weren’t being complete a-holes, just cheering for our team, but we had a few drunken Bammers that gave us some crap. Even though we were with mostly Bama fans, it was kinda fun to see the place go silent after the game. The streets after the game were filled with rowdy Tigers. Several dance parties erupted in the streets. I have to admit, I did a little dancing myself. Overall, it was a great trip and I will definitely go back.
Did you know?
The last time LSU allowed 4 consecutive teams to score 24 or more points was in 1992. LSU lost all 4 of those games.
Did you know part II?
Les Miles is the only LSU coach to go 3-0 vs. Alabama. He and Saban are the only 2 LSU coaches to beat Bama 3 times.
Week 8 Games of the Week:
Virginia Tech def. Georgia Tech, 27-3
Arkansas def. South Carolina, 48-36
Navy def. Notre Dame, 46-44
Oregon def. Arizona St., 35-23
Kansas def. Nebraska, 76-39
Ohio St. def. Wisconsin, 38-17
Florida St. def. Boston College, 27-17
Oklahoma def. Texas A&M, 42-14
Rankings:
Here are the updated top 10 BCS rankings:
1. Ohio St.
2. LSU
3. Oregon
4. Kansas
5. Oklahoma
6. Missouri
7. West Virginia
8. Boston College
9. Arizona St.
10. Georgia
The SEC currently holds seven spots in the top 25.
Whack Stats:
Alabama was only penalized twice for 15 yards. That’s Whack!!
Krysal Burger forgot Ty’s food. That’s Whack!!!
Notes:
LSU vs. Ole Miss will be shown on CBS at 2:30.
Thursday, November 1, 2007
Wild West Showdown
Week 10: November 3, 2007
(3) LSU vs. (17) Alabama
Bryant-Denny Stadium (92,138): Tuscaloosa, AL
CBS 4pm
Miles….. Saban….Back to Back. Just 10 short paces until they turn around and draw weapons on each other. If only this game were at high noon, it would make for the perfect Hollywood movie. Make no mistake, there will be a dual on the field of Bryant-Denny Stadium on Saturday. The winner takes the west, and the loser rides off into the sunset in the opposite direction of Atlanta. Weather Saban or Miles admits it or not, they are going head to head, or back to back as it may be. The outward love affair each coach has displayed this week will not be enough to mask the hatred that burns just below the surface, especially for Miles. Since day 1 in Baton Rouge, Miles hasn’t gone a day without being compared to the great Nick Saban. The shadow cast by Nick has been inescapable thus far for Les. Maybe this is the week that the sun shines upon Miles and he sees the light. Or maybe the shadow becomes so dark that Miles loses his way in Baton Rouge. Am I over dramatizing this??? Not at all. This is it for Miles. His legacy, his reputation, his manhood rides on this game. I can’t even imagine the mutiny that will ensue if Miles returns to Baton Rouge with a loss. It will be ugly, and Miles knows it. Miles has had this game circled since January 3rd, the day Saban took the Bama job and the credit for LSU beat down of Notre Dame in the Sugar Bowl. I think that angered Les Miles. His anger boiled over again last February 7th when Miles went into a rant at the Recruiting Bash, culminating in an F-Bomb dropped on Tuscaloosa. Let’s hope that same intensity is on display this Saturday.
Point Spread:
LSU -7.5
Bama Bound:
I, joined by several other Samsonites, will be in hostile territory this weekend. We don’t have tickets, but we’ll be there to absorb the abuse from the delusional Bama faithful. I’m not too worried about it. I’ll let the scoreboard do the talking for me.
"You tell them I’m coming. And Hell’s coming with me!"
Know thy Foe:
Head Coach: Nick Saban
Since 2000, LSU is 6-1 against Alabama, their best stretch ever against the Crimson Tide. LSU has won the last 4 games and 6 of the last 7.
This is a series that has been dominated by the visiting team. The Tigers are 9-3 at Bama during my lifetime. Over that same period, Bama is 9-3-1 at Tiger Stadium.
LSU and Alabama do not have a common opponent yet this season. Four of Alabama’s wins this season have been by seven points or less. Alabama is 0-2 this season in games played when they are ranked. They are 2-1 vs. ranked teams while LSU is 4-1 against ranked teams.
Week 1: Defeated Western Carolina, 52-6
Week 2: Defeated Vanderbilt, 24-10
Week 3: Defeated Arkansas, 41-38
Week 4: Lost to Georgia, 23-26
Week 5: Lost to Florida St., 14-21
Week 6: Defeated Houston, 30-24
Week 7: Defeated Ole Miss, 27-24
Week 8: Defeated Tennessee, 41-17
Week 9: OFF
LSU Offense vs. Alabama Defense:
I won’t sugar coat it. Alabama is weak on defense and I’d be disappointed if LSU is not able to rack up at least 30 points. They are young and inexperienced. On top of that, they are still trying to learn Saban’s very complex defense. It took LSU almost 2 years to learn it. But still, it is a Saban defense. So you can expect to see a lot of blitzing and pressure put on Flynn. He should have a great day running the ball if he can feel the pressure and escape the pocket before it collapses. I think he’ll be ready for it. After all, he spent 2 years going against the Saban defense while he was running the scout team offense for LSU. We should have a great day running the ball as Alabama has given up tons of yards. The passing game could be just as successful if Miles/Crowton can keep them off balance and spread it out. One play that always seemed to work against Saban was the middle screen to the running back releasing from the backfield. Alabama may target Early Doucet with backer Siemeon Castille. I don’t think they’ll let Doucet have single coverage on passing downs. LSU must move the ball consistently and not settle for field goals when they enter the red zone.
Alabama Offense vs. LSU Defense:
John Parker Wilson is Bama’s QB. He is not a great quarterback, but he did have a lot of success last season against LSU. Major Applewhite, former Catholic High and Texas QB, is the wonder boy offensive coordinator. He’s only 28 years old, but he’s done a good job so far. Alabama uses two halfbacks in speedster Terry Grant and bruiser Glen Coffee. Coffee, however, may be suspended for the game since he was part of the textbook scandal (more on that later). D.J. Hall, the SEC’s leading receiver, is Alabama’s Early Doucet and he is very effective. He averages over 15 yards per reception. I expect to hear his name a lot on Saturday. Alabama’s offensive line is pretty good despite the possible suspension of 2 starters, guard Marlon Davis and center Antoine Caldwell. Andre Smith is a great left tackle. Justin Britt will go against Dorsey. The O-line has looked good so far this season, but they have not gone against a defensive line like LSU’s. This match up between the big uglies will determine the outcome of the game in my opinion. LSU needs to put a rush on Parker Wilson and make him get rid of the ball before he’s ready. He is a 3 step drop QB much like Kentucky’s Andre Woodson. If you remember, the only success LSU had against Woodson was when the rush was on. I hope Pelini re-watched that tape.
Keys to the Game:
Score early. If you win the toss, take the ball. We must score early to take the crowd out of the game. Alabama is not known to be the loudest fan base, but they are the most delusional and myopic. They think they should beat everybody, because they are ALABAMA. They don’t have much perspective when it comes to college football. Anyway, back on topic; we must not have a slow start like we’ve been doing the last few games. Get ahead and stay ahead.
Injury Report:
Glenn Dorsey: Probable. Not at 100%.
Ali Highsmith: Close to 100%
Darry Beckwith: Close to 100%. He popped that shoulder back in and got back in the game against Auburn. What a beast!
Kirston Pittman: Close to 100%.
Game Prediction:
This game is a hard one to predict. I think LSU will have success on offense if they show some creativity. On defense, it’s pretty simple. RUSH THE QUARTERBACK! Will they do these things?? I think they will because Miles’ butt is on the line.
I’ll take LSU – 34, Bama – 24
Week 10 Games of the Week: (Predicted winners in CAPS)
(11) VIRGINIA TECH @ Georgia Tech
Nebraska @ (8) KANSAS
(4) Arizona St. @ (5) OREGON
(21) Wisconsin @ (1) OHIO ST.
(15) TEXAS @ Oklahoma St.
Florida St. @ (2) BOSTON COLLEGE
Lock of the Week: (3-4)
Georgia (-16.5) vs. Troy
Upset Special: (4-5)
Navy (+3.5) over Notre Dame. Go Midshipmen!
Whack Stats!
LSU has not lost in November since 2002, over 15 games. That’s Whack!!
The Varsity Situation:
I’m not going to go too far into this, as I know you’ve been beat down by this story over the last few days. Everyone by now knows what happened. Odom and Benton are thugs and Perrilloux suffers from some of the worst judgement I’ve ever seen. The penalty fit the crime and I’m happy with the way Miles handled it. I don’t think the team has been too distracted by this but the fans have obsessed over this story all week. It’s time to put this behind us and focus on the Crimson Tide.
Perrilloux will not be making the trip to BAMA. Who will we ever find to take the snap and run left? Miles lists walk-on Andrew Hatch (#14) as the backup QB. I hope Hatch can handle it because I really don’t want to take the redshirt off Jarrett Lee. Odom and Benton are toast, as they should be. Have a nice life, don’t drop the soap.
The Textbook Situation:
Here’s the short version. Alabama players have been abusing scholarship money set aside for textbook purchases. It’s not just the football team, but 5 players were suspended for last week’s Tennessee game and will probably remain suspended for the LSU game. They have been allowed to practice but they’ve been working with the 3rd team all week. Textbook abuse is not something invented by Bama. It goes on at a lot of places since it is very easy to get away with. However, Bama’s textbook program makes it even easier to abuse by giving each player bookstore debit cards. This is being investigated by the SEC Conference in Birmingham so don’t expect any harsh penalties for Bama.
My thoughts of Nick Saban:
Like most people, I have mixed feelings about this guy. As usual, my opinion falls somewhere in the middle of the pack between those that hate his guts and those that still pray to Lord Saban. This is a classic case of the jilted lover. He left us. He broke our hearts. The natural human reaction is to hate him and find someone else to love. Les Miles has definitely benefited from this reaction by the fanbase. Consider this…
Here are some reasons to hate Nick Saban:
He coaches at Alabama, a division foe in the SEC.
He uses his coaching contacts in Louisiana to recruit our players.
He uses negative recruiting tactics to put down LSU.
He waited until the end of December to resign the LSU job, giving us very little time to find a new coach.
He tried to raid our personnel staff and coaches once he was hired on at Bama.
He made insulting comments about Louisiana people and our culture.
He treats people with no respect, unless he needs something from them.
He’s a liar and only cares about himself.
He’s a money grubbing a-hole.
Here are some reasons to love Nick Saban:
He led LSU to a National Title.
He won two SEC Championships for LSU.
He resurrected the LSU program from mediocrity and made us a national powerhouse.
He put up a fence around Louisiana and recruited the best in-state players.
He demanded changes be made to all LSU sports facilities.
He demanded the Cox Center for Student Athletes.
Love him or hate him????
Les Miles Winning with Saban’s Players??
Yes and No. Here are a few stats to ponder:
*30 current LSU players, including 7 starters, were on the roster in 2004, Saban’s last season.
*The tigers have scored 294 points this season, 240 of which were scored by players signed after Saban left.
*Eleven of the top 15 tacklers on LSU’s team are Saban recruits.
BCS News:
Ohio St. remained #1 and Boston College remained #2 in the latest BCS poll. Here’s what those two teams have accomplished and what they have remaining.
Week:----------------Ohio St.-------------------------Boston College
---1----------Defeated Youngstown St., 38-6----------Defeated Wake Forrest, 38-28
---2----------Defeated Akron, 20-2-------------------Defeated N.C. State, 37-17
---3----------Defeated Washington, 33-14------------Defeated Ga. Tech, 24-10
---4----------Defeated Northwestern, 58-7-----------Defeated Army, 37-17
---5----------Defeated Minnesota, 30-7---------------Defeated UMass, 24-14
---6----------Defeated Purdue, 23-7------------------Defeated Bowling Green, 55-24
---7----------Defeated Kent St., 48-3-----------------Defeated Notre Dame, 27-14
---8----------Defeated Michigan St., 24-17------------OFF
---9----------Defeated Penn St., 37-17----------------Defeated Va. Tech, 14-10
---10---------vs. Wisconsin---------------------------vs. Florida St.
---11---------vs. Illinois-------------------------------vs. Maryland
---12---------vs. Michigan----------------------------vs. Clemson
---13---------OFF------------------------------------vs. Miami
---14---------No Championship Game----------------ACC Championship Game
BCS Top 10:
1. Ohio St.
2. Boston College
3. LSU
4. Arizona St.
5. Oregon
6. Oklahoma
7. West Virginia
8. Kansas
9. Missouri
10. Georgia
Samson’s Top 10:
1. Ohio St.
2. LSU
3. Oregon
4. Oklahoma
5. Boston College
6. Arizona St.
7. West Virginia
8. Kansas
9. Georgia
10. Missouri
(3) LSU vs. (17) Alabama
Bryant-Denny Stadium (92,138): Tuscaloosa, AL
CBS 4pm
Miles….. Saban….Back to Back. Just 10 short paces until they turn around and draw weapons on each other. If only this game were at high noon, it would make for the perfect Hollywood movie. Make no mistake, there will be a dual on the field of Bryant-Denny Stadium on Saturday. The winner takes the west, and the loser rides off into the sunset in the opposite direction of Atlanta. Weather Saban or Miles admits it or not, they are going head to head, or back to back as it may be. The outward love affair each coach has displayed this week will not be enough to mask the hatred that burns just below the surface, especially for Miles. Since day 1 in Baton Rouge, Miles hasn’t gone a day without being compared to the great Nick Saban. The shadow cast by Nick has been inescapable thus far for Les. Maybe this is the week that the sun shines upon Miles and he sees the light. Or maybe the shadow becomes so dark that Miles loses his way in Baton Rouge. Am I over dramatizing this??? Not at all. This is it for Miles. His legacy, his reputation, his manhood rides on this game. I can’t even imagine the mutiny that will ensue if Miles returns to Baton Rouge with a loss. It will be ugly, and Miles knows it. Miles has had this game circled since January 3rd, the day Saban took the Bama job and the credit for LSU beat down of Notre Dame in the Sugar Bowl. I think that angered Les Miles. His anger boiled over again last February 7th when Miles went into a rant at the Recruiting Bash, culminating in an F-Bomb dropped on Tuscaloosa. Let’s hope that same intensity is on display this Saturday.
Point Spread:
LSU -7.5
Bama Bound:
I, joined by several other Samsonites, will be in hostile territory this weekend. We don’t have tickets, but we’ll be there to absorb the abuse from the delusional Bama faithful. I’m not too worried about it. I’ll let the scoreboard do the talking for me.
"You tell them I’m coming. And Hell’s coming with me!"
Know thy Foe:
Head Coach: Nick Saban
Since 2000, LSU is 6-1 against Alabama, their best stretch ever against the Crimson Tide. LSU has won the last 4 games and 6 of the last 7.
This is a series that has been dominated by the visiting team. The Tigers are 9-3 at Bama during my lifetime. Over that same period, Bama is 9-3-1 at Tiger Stadium.
LSU and Alabama do not have a common opponent yet this season. Four of Alabama’s wins this season have been by seven points or less. Alabama is 0-2 this season in games played when they are ranked. They are 2-1 vs. ranked teams while LSU is 4-1 against ranked teams.
Week 1: Defeated Western Carolina, 52-6
Week 2: Defeated Vanderbilt, 24-10
Week 3: Defeated Arkansas, 41-38
Week 4: Lost to Georgia, 23-26
Week 5: Lost to Florida St., 14-21
Week 6: Defeated Houston, 30-24
Week 7: Defeated Ole Miss, 27-24
Week 8: Defeated Tennessee, 41-17
Week 9: OFF
LSU Offense vs. Alabama Defense:
I won’t sugar coat it. Alabama is weak on defense and I’d be disappointed if LSU is not able to rack up at least 30 points. They are young and inexperienced. On top of that, they are still trying to learn Saban’s very complex defense. It took LSU almost 2 years to learn it. But still, it is a Saban defense. So you can expect to see a lot of blitzing and pressure put on Flynn. He should have a great day running the ball if he can feel the pressure and escape the pocket before it collapses. I think he’ll be ready for it. After all, he spent 2 years going against the Saban defense while he was running the scout team offense for LSU. We should have a great day running the ball as Alabama has given up tons of yards. The passing game could be just as successful if Miles/Crowton can keep them off balance and spread it out. One play that always seemed to work against Saban was the middle screen to the running back releasing from the backfield. Alabama may target Early Doucet with backer Siemeon Castille. I don’t think they’ll let Doucet have single coverage on passing downs. LSU must move the ball consistently and not settle for field goals when they enter the red zone.
Alabama Offense vs. LSU Defense:
John Parker Wilson is Bama’s QB. He is not a great quarterback, but he did have a lot of success last season against LSU. Major Applewhite, former Catholic High and Texas QB, is the wonder boy offensive coordinator. He’s only 28 years old, but he’s done a good job so far. Alabama uses two halfbacks in speedster Terry Grant and bruiser Glen Coffee. Coffee, however, may be suspended for the game since he was part of the textbook scandal (more on that later). D.J. Hall, the SEC’s leading receiver, is Alabama’s Early Doucet and he is very effective. He averages over 15 yards per reception. I expect to hear his name a lot on Saturday. Alabama’s offensive line is pretty good despite the possible suspension of 2 starters, guard Marlon Davis and center Antoine Caldwell. Andre Smith is a great left tackle. Justin Britt will go against Dorsey. The O-line has looked good so far this season, but they have not gone against a defensive line like LSU’s. This match up between the big uglies will determine the outcome of the game in my opinion. LSU needs to put a rush on Parker Wilson and make him get rid of the ball before he’s ready. He is a 3 step drop QB much like Kentucky’s Andre Woodson. If you remember, the only success LSU had against Woodson was when the rush was on. I hope Pelini re-watched that tape.
Keys to the Game:
Score early. If you win the toss, take the ball. We must score early to take the crowd out of the game. Alabama is not known to be the loudest fan base, but they are the most delusional and myopic. They think they should beat everybody, because they are ALABAMA. They don’t have much perspective when it comes to college football. Anyway, back on topic; we must not have a slow start like we’ve been doing the last few games. Get ahead and stay ahead.
Injury Report:
Glenn Dorsey: Probable. Not at 100%.
Ali Highsmith: Close to 100%
Darry Beckwith: Close to 100%. He popped that shoulder back in and got back in the game against Auburn. What a beast!
Kirston Pittman: Close to 100%.
Game Prediction:
This game is a hard one to predict. I think LSU will have success on offense if they show some creativity. On defense, it’s pretty simple. RUSH THE QUARTERBACK! Will they do these things?? I think they will because Miles’ butt is on the line.
I’ll take LSU – 34, Bama – 24
Week 10 Games of the Week: (Predicted winners in CAPS)
(11) VIRGINIA TECH @ Georgia Tech
Nebraska @ (8) KANSAS
(4) Arizona St. @ (5) OREGON
(21) Wisconsin @ (1) OHIO ST.
(15) TEXAS @ Oklahoma St.
Florida St. @ (2) BOSTON COLLEGE
Lock of the Week: (3-4)
Georgia (-16.5) vs. Troy
Upset Special: (4-5)
Navy (+3.5) over Notre Dame. Go Midshipmen!
Whack Stats!
LSU has not lost in November since 2002, over 15 games. That’s Whack!!
The Varsity Situation:
I’m not going to go too far into this, as I know you’ve been beat down by this story over the last few days. Everyone by now knows what happened. Odom and Benton are thugs and Perrilloux suffers from some of the worst judgement I’ve ever seen. The penalty fit the crime and I’m happy with the way Miles handled it. I don’t think the team has been too distracted by this but the fans have obsessed over this story all week. It’s time to put this behind us and focus on the Crimson Tide.
Perrilloux will not be making the trip to BAMA. Who will we ever find to take the snap and run left? Miles lists walk-on Andrew Hatch (#14) as the backup QB. I hope Hatch can handle it because I really don’t want to take the redshirt off Jarrett Lee. Odom and Benton are toast, as they should be. Have a nice life, don’t drop the soap.
The Textbook Situation:
Here’s the short version. Alabama players have been abusing scholarship money set aside for textbook purchases. It’s not just the football team, but 5 players were suspended for last week’s Tennessee game and will probably remain suspended for the LSU game. They have been allowed to practice but they’ve been working with the 3rd team all week. Textbook abuse is not something invented by Bama. It goes on at a lot of places since it is very easy to get away with. However, Bama’s textbook program makes it even easier to abuse by giving each player bookstore debit cards. This is being investigated by the SEC Conference in Birmingham so don’t expect any harsh penalties for Bama.
My thoughts of Nick Saban:
Like most people, I have mixed feelings about this guy. As usual, my opinion falls somewhere in the middle of the pack between those that hate his guts and those that still pray to Lord Saban. This is a classic case of the jilted lover. He left us. He broke our hearts. The natural human reaction is to hate him and find someone else to love. Les Miles has definitely benefited from this reaction by the fanbase. Consider this…
Here are some reasons to hate Nick Saban:
He coaches at Alabama, a division foe in the SEC.
He uses his coaching contacts in Louisiana to recruit our players.
He uses negative recruiting tactics to put down LSU.
He waited until the end of December to resign the LSU job, giving us very little time to find a new coach.
He tried to raid our personnel staff and coaches once he was hired on at Bama.
He made insulting comments about Louisiana people and our culture.
He treats people with no respect, unless he needs something from them.
He’s a liar and only cares about himself.
He’s a money grubbing a-hole.
Here are some reasons to love Nick Saban:
He led LSU to a National Title.
He won two SEC Championships for LSU.
He resurrected the LSU program from mediocrity and made us a national powerhouse.
He put up a fence around Louisiana and recruited the best in-state players.
He demanded changes be made to all LSU sports facilities.
He demanded the Cox Center for Student Athletes.
Love him or hate him????
Les Miles Winning with Saban’s Players??
Yes and No. Here are a few stats to ponder:
*30 current LSU players, including 7 starters, were on the roster in 2004, Saban’s last season.
*The tigers have scored 294 points this season, 240 of which were scored by players signed after Saban left.
*Eleven of the top 15 tacklers on LSU’s team are Saban recruits.
BCS News:
Ohio St. remained #1 and Boston College remained #2 in the latest BCS poll. Here’s what those two teams have accomplished and what they have remaining.
Week:----------------Ohio St.-------------------------Boston College
---1----------Defeated Youngstown St., 38-6----------Defeated Wake Forrest, 38-28
---2----------Defeated Akron, 20-2-------------------Defeated N.C. State, 37-17
---3----------Defeated Washington, 33-14------------Defeated Ga. Tech, 24-10
---4----------Defeated Northwestern, 58-7-----------Defeated Army, 37-17
---5----------Defeated Minnesota, 30-7---------------Defeated UMass, 24-14
---6----------Defeated Purdue, 23-7------------------Defeated Bowling Green, 55-24
---7----------Defeated Kent St., 48-3-----------------Defeated Notre Dame, 27-14
---8----------Defeated Michigan St., 24-17------------OFF
---9----------Defeated Penn St., 37-17----------------Defeated Va. Tech, 14-10
---10---------vs. Wisconsin---------------------------vs. Florida St.
---11---------vs. Illinois-------------------------------vs. Maryland
---12---------vs. Michigan----------------------------vs. Clemson
---13---------OFF------------------------------------vs. Miami
---14---------No Championship Game----------------ACC Championship Game
BCS Top 10:
1. Ohio St.
2. Boston College
3. LSU
4. Arizona St.
5. Oregon
6. Oklahoma
7. West Virginia
8. Kansas
9. Missouri
10. Georgia
Samson’s Top 10:
1. Ohio St.
2. LSU
3. Oregon
4. Oklahoma
5. Boston College
6. Arizona St.
7. West Virginia
8. Kansas
9. Georgia
10. Missouri
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