LSU Jumps to #7 in AP Poll

After a week of upsets LSU goes up two spots in the AP Poll making 4 of the top 8 teams from the SEC and the other 4, guess what? We play them in the regular season. After losing to Washington, USC dropped to #12. Washington then moved into the polls at #24. As for the SEC Flordia is #1, Alabama #3, Ole Miss #4 (biggest overranking ever..), and Georgia #22.

LSU ends the Series for Tulane, Set to Open 2010 Season Against North Carolina

LSU has ended its contract with Tulane for the home and home series. After only 4 years, LSU and Tulane officials decided to end it. This opened up LSU opening game for next season and the Tigers have scheduled to play North Carolina in Atlanta for the Chick-fil-a Kick off game. That game will be televised by ESPN.

LSU #9 in SI Power Rankings

Self- explanatory, or I am too lazy to recap :)

Alem named Defensive Player of the Week

Rahim Alem was named SEC Defensive Player of the Week for the Vanderbilt game. Alem had 7 tackles and 1 sack in the game.

LSU- Mississippi State to Kick off at 11:20am

The LSU- Mississippi State game that is taking place in Starkville on the 26th will be a morning game kicking off at 11:21 to be precise. It will be on the SEC Network which is broadcasting on Cable channel 7 (WAFB) in Baton Rouge.

Tigers Crack the Top 10 in the AP Poll

After a crazy week in college football, LSU has moved up to #9 in the AP Poll. Ohio State and Oklahoma State lost this week, opening up spots in the Top 10. Flordia remains at #1, Alabama #4, Ole Miss #5 and Georgia at #23.

Richard Murphy Could be out for the Season

Running Back Richard Murphy may be out for the season with a knee injury. He was hit mid-air during the Vanderbilt game and the extent of the injury is unknown. Murphy is a junior this year. Link to Si.com

LSU 23 Vanderbilt 9

So this wasn't a pretty game, literally or in the playing style, but it was better executed than last week. The defense really did look better, but when they miss tackles it turns into a 26 yard run. That needs to be fixed. Props to Harry Coleman for knocking the living crap out of some people. Nothing better than those bone crushing hits. One thing that really is starting to bug me, is the offensive play calling. I don't understand why they refuse to throw the ball down the field. Jefferson has a cannon and we all know it, but we sure as hell ain't seen it. Then the use of Rueben Randle is bugging me too. I see #2 go in and line up at receiver just to watch the dude block... Ummm, how about NO! He was the #1 recruit because he can catch the dang ball and make defensive backs look like deer in headlights. The defensive line looked better at times. Drake Nevis had a hell of a game. Vandy had the center and the guard on him and Nevis still made 4 tackles and 2 of them for loss. The TigerNation however did the satisfacion of seeing Russell Shepard play. He lined up in the Wild Tiger 3 times for 27 yards, and man, that guy is quick. Everyone kinda was pissed when he caught his first pass only to fumble it :(. But I'll live.

Dog House: The O-Line, They were getting dominated by Vandy, and I promise you, they will face worse

Brownie Points: Chavis, The Defensive showed serious improvement in one week. I think that they are on the right track to getting to the LSU defensive we all miss and love.

Game Ball: Keiland Williams, Vandy was able to stop Scott, but not Williams who had 10 carries for 72 yards and 2 TDs.

Annoucement of my 2009 Freshman

I know that this is late, but that just makes the annoucement better :)

Every year some of my friends and family pick an incoming freshman that we think will have a great impact at LSU. I always call them my freshman

My first freshman is a senior this year so

My Senior is running back #5 Keiland Williams
My Junior is wide receiver #80 Terrance Tolliver
My Sophmore is cornerback #7 Patrick Peterson

and this years' freshman is..... (drumroll please)

Defensive end

#99 Sam Montgomery!!

Things That I see happening this year in College Football

- The loser of the Michagan- Notre Dame game will not be ranked at the end of the season

- There will be no two-time Heisman winner

- Ohio State will give USC a better fight this year

- There will be at least one SEC team in the National Championship (I am not ruling out the prediction by Danielson as a possiblity)

- Flordia will not have a perfect season

- Everyone will have at least one loss before November except the BCS Buster(s)

- USC will finally lose the top Pac-10 spot

- Ole Miss will disappoint, again.

- Auburn and Mississippi State's new head coaches won't have a "break-out" year

- Vandy pull off a upset somewhere.

- Biggest Disappointment of the Season: Georgia

- Biggest Surprise: Oklahoma State

Special Teams Preview

I am most worried about special teams. Return game should be fine with Holliday returning kick-offs and Chad Jones returning punts (though I would like to see Randle return a few). The Tigers lost their punter last year in Brady Dalfrey who though only started one year had been on the team for five years. Then the Tigers lost the school's record holder in points scored, Colt David. Josh Jasper, who will be this years placekicker, did play a good bit last year for kick-off and some field goals. But at punter the best guy we have a is a Junior College commit in Derek Helton. He comes with a good resume, but I am not ready to put confidence in this guy. Especially since he averaged 24 yards per punt in last Saturday's game.

Grade: D, I am sorry, but I am extremely worried about this group. The lack of experience and depth for that matter is seriously frightening to me.

Real Deal: Josh Jasper, He has the makings to be one of LSU next best.

Starters: PK Josh Jasper, P Derek Helton, KR Trindon Holliday, PR Chad Jones

LSU falls to #10 in SI.com Power Rankings

Sorry, after that defensive performance, I would too...

LSU stays at #11 in the AP Poll

Jump to SI...

Quarterback Preview

So I am going to finish my previews even though the season has started. I was sick last week and trying to catch up in school is like Jarrett Lee facing the best defensive backfield aka disaster. year

So for the quarterbacks, LSU should be much better than last year. Jordan Jefferson is the starter and he should be better than the Hatch/Lee combo from last year. I have read alot of articles saying how much of a leader he has become along with how much he has improved and learned. Jarrett Lee should be a decent back-up as long he has learned to relax more in the pocket. Then you have the man that is the talk, Russell Shepard. He will no doubt make an impact on the team the question is where... He has been practicing multiple positions and seems to fit into the offensive scheme. Then the person alot of people are forgetting is Chris Garrett. He enrolled early like Shepard and has grown under Crowton. He is a pro-style quarterback that has a CANNON. To be honest, I could see him taking over the offensive in a few years more than Shepard.

Grade: B Experience, that is the only thing holding me back from making this my favorite position.

Real Deal: Chris Garrett. He is overshadowed by Shepard for now, but I am putting in a "I told you so" now...

Starter: Jordan Jefferson, duh...

Defensive Line Preview

So most people have this higher on their list, but I put too much faith in them last year and was disappointed. The defensive line has plenty of talent the real question is, whether they will be able to dominate the line of scrimage. Rahim Alem is crazy good at defensive end. He made the All-SEC team last year without starting. The other end will probably be Pep Levingston. On the inside will be Drake Nevis and Al Woods who have shown serious promise. 6-year Senior Charles Alexander is back and will be in the rotation...

Grade: C Purely off of "I'll believe it when I see it"

Real Deal: Rahim Alem, I repeat, he made the All-SEC team last year without starting.

Starters: I outlined them earlier and I know you can read

Sizing up the Five Star Freshman

Scout.com hunted down all the five stars from last year's recruiting class and gave a preview. LSU has the most out of the country with 5 so it was a slightly interesting article....

A Pretty Good LSU Preview

Normally I hate this guy Pete Fuitak for his basis to Alabama, but he must have took some common sense medicine because he wrote a pretty awesome preview...
Click the title for the jump

Offensive Line Preview

This could have been higher, but I was too indecisive about it. Though LSU had a good O-Line last year, it didn't quite do as good as I thought and I am just being stubborn now. LSU has Pre-season All-American Ciron Black back at left tackle so major plus there. Josh Dworaczyk is at left guard (I just love LSU's unpronounceable last name boys). Opposite of him at right guard is senior Lyle Hitt, aside him is right tackle Joseph Barksdale who is one of two non-returning-starters. The biggest question is center which has been disputed in the offseason. T-Bob Hebert has been put on top of most depth charts, but I have heard P. J. Lonergan as well...

Grade B- The indecision at center kind of worries me but I am probably being OCD.

Real Deal: Ciron Black, Yeah it is a obvious choice, get over it...

Starters: LT Ciron Black, LG Josh Dworaczyk, C T-Bob Hebert, RG Lyle Hitt, RT Joseph Barksdale 

LSU #9 in first Sports Illustrated Power Rankings

LSU pops up at #9. Florida at #1 of course, Ole Miss #8, Alabama #10, Georgia #15...
See a pattern here...

Linebackers Preview

This year's linebacker corps should be interesting for multiple reasons. First off, the new defensice coorinador John Chavis is known for his linebackers so him coming in will have a huge effect on this area of the defense. Second, when John Chavis came to LSU he converted the top tackler on last year's team, Harry Coleman, from safety to Sam Linebacker. At the depth chart he will back-up Kelvin Sheppard, but I am sure that he will get plenty of playing time. Sheppard plays both middle and strong side linebacker so he will be seen. Perry Riley is back at weakside and Jacob Cutrera at middle. Basically LSU returns 3 starters since Darry Beckwith was out with injuries last year, giving all the starters playing time. With Chavis taking the reins here, I see Linebackers becoming a star position at LSU.

Grade: B- LSU pretty much returns 3 starters at LB, but it will be interesting to see how these guys react to the new Chavis defense.

Real Deal: Harry Coleman, I bet alot of people didn't see this coming, but he is known as the hardest hitter on the team. The reason he had the most tackles last year is because he constant got beat on pass protection, but at linebacker, he will be able to cover that extra receiver, tight end, or running back with ease.

Starters: WLB Perry Riley, MLB Jacob Cutrera, SLB Kelvin Sheppard (this could change mid-season depending on the addjustment Coleman makes)

Defensive Backs Preview

The talent in the defensive backs is as good as ever. Chad Jones will be permanently at free safety where he played in high school. I have heard multiple things about the Strong Safety position. I have heard the hard-hitting Ron Brooks from special teams, then I have heard Brandon Taylor too. So I guess we will have to wait until Saturday and see. Corners are pretty solid. Last year's starter Chris Hawkins is back (and hopefully with better pass protection). Then last year's freshman Patrick Peterson has been named the next best defensive star. He will start at the other corner.

Grade: B The fact that there isn't a defined strong safety is the only reason for the B. There is lots of speed here and a butt load of talent.

Real Deal: Patrick Peterson, Believe the hype. He is that good, hence why the kid was my freshman...

Starters: FS Chad Jones, SS Ron Brooks (??), CB Patrick Peterson, CB Chris Hawkins

Wide Receivers/ Tight End Preview

Every year LSU has top-notch wide receivers, it's how the Tigers have the name wide receiver U. LSU returns senior Brandon LaFell who passed up the NFL Draft to return. With him is Terrance Tolliver, a junior that is wanting to have a break out season. I am quite depressed that Tim Molton is injured though :(. Of course you have true freshman Rueben Randle that will be seeing immediate playing time. Then you have seniors, RJ Jackson and Chris Mitchell who really haven't seen much playing time but will be in the rotation. I have also heard that Russel Shepard will play at wide receiver so that should be interesting...
At tight end, Richard Dickson is back, nuff said there.

Grade: B+ Since LaFell hasn't been the most consistent receiver, and he is the only one with serious playing time. But there is some serious talent in this group.

Real Deal: Rueben Randle- He was the number recruit for a reason, people...

Starters: WR: Brandon LaFell, Terrance Tolliver, Rueben Randle TE: Richard Dickson

Running Backs Preview

Starting today I will preview a position a day for the upcoming season. The positions will go in order of the strength in my opinion. (So the best position first.) I will say my projected starters, the breakout player (The Real Deal), and give a grade for the position.

To say this isn't the Tigers strongest position this year would be a sin. LSU returns one of the best backs in the nation in Charles Scott who passed up the NFL Draft for his senior year. He will be splitting time with senior Keiland Williams. Adding some diversity to the backfield is Trindon Holliday who is ummm fast (understatement of the year). You also have rising start Richard Murphy, a back with quick feet that makes you miss so bad, you look like middle school player. Fullback could be a concern since Quinn Johnson left, but with so much depth at running back, it really shouldn't be a problem. Look for freshman Dominique Allen to see some playing time and running backs Charles Scott and Steven Ridley to take some snaps there as well. James Stampley is on the depth-chart but I am not buying that just yet (don't shot me if I am wrong).

Grade: A-, If we had a true experienced fullback, the running backs would have gotten bonus points. With Charles Scott leading, this group is among the best in the country. Also Scott is considered a wild card by some people for the Heisman.

Real Deal: Steven Ridley- I saw this guy once, and I know he is going to be A-M-A-Z-I-N-G! Watch and see my friends...

Starters: RB; Charles Scott FB; Steven Ridley or James Stampley

LSU #11 in AP Preseason Poll

Can you feel it? Football season is almost here, 12 days eh? Let the upsets, disappointments, and "I told you so"s begin. The AP always starts the season with their poll. LSU is at #11. To sum up the SEC, Florida is #1, Alabama #5, Ole Miss #8, and Georgia #13.

Craig Loston Cleared to Play

LSU star recruit Craig Loston has been cleared to play by the NCAA. The safety was unable to practice with the team since a course he took online was not accepted by the Clearinghouse so he had to retake the class in a classroom. 

Happy Birthday Jordan Jefferson!

The only reason I know it's his birthday is that he is my friend on Facebook and it shows up. 

But here is an article about Jefferson rising as a leader on the offensive side of the ball. It does make me feel better since there were none of these about Hatch or Lee last year...

Jefferson Named a Future Quarterback Star

Scout.com has a list of the nation's next 30 quarterback stars and guess who is #6??? LSU's own Jordan Jefferson. Click the title for the jump to the full list...

SEC banning Twitter, Facebook, Myspace, and Youtube from Games

Apparently, the SEC is banning all people from updating their Twitter, Facebook, and Myspace pages during game "to protect the networks' game rights". You can't video parts of the game and post them either. My question is how in the heck are you going to enforce that, honestly? I am rolling on the floor laughing over the power the SEC thinks they have....

Brandon LaFell make WR Rankings

Brandon LaFell pops up in Rivals.com Rankings today on the Wide Recievers list at #9.

Charles Scott makes Preseason Running Backs Rankings

Rivals.com does their little position rankings which started yesterday with Running Backs and of course Charles "I'll run you over, make you cry, then laugh about it" Scott made the list at #7.

Commitment #22: Travis Dickson

If you are wondering if the latest recruiting is related to Senior tight end Richard Dickson, you are correct. It is his little brother, and beastliness must run in the family. Travis is a tight end as well, a four star one to be in fact from Ocean Springs, MS. Everyone and their mom gave him a scholarship offer, but he is a smart one and chose LSU. He is 6'3", 235lbs so about the size of his brother. The Dickson legacy continues....

The Most Interesting Prediction I Have Ever Seen

From Sunday's Advocate:

And Gary Danielson, the No. 1 color analyst on CBS’ SEC telecasts, might’ve made a lot of LSU fans smile when he predicted an LSU-Florida national title game.

Danielson’s reasoning was the strength of the SEC, with four teams in the preseason top 10, and he projected that LSU would beat Florida, Alabama would beat LSU and Florida would beat Alabama in the SEC Championship Game. That would pit Florida against an LSU team that he proposed would have a strong enough resume to warrant a rematch with the Gators in Pasadena.

Black, LaFell, Scott all being Watched

Maybe the LSU Police should stop changing traffic after football games and watch out for Tiger football player, because 3 more are being watched. I know that was corny and I am having way to much fun but that is what back to school time does to me.

Scott was placed on the watch list for the Doak Walker Award for the nation's best running back along with 44 others.
http://www.lsusports.net/ViewArticle.dbml?SPSID=27815&SPID=2164&DB_OEM_ID=5200&ATCLID=204769359

LaFell is on the Biletnikoff Award list for the best wide receiver. He is one out of 37 for that one. Trivia: Can you name the last LSU player to win this award???
http://www.lsusports.net/ViewArticle.dbml?SPSID=27815&SPID=2164&DB_OEM_ID=5200&ATCLID=204773163

Ciron Black is on the watch list for the Outland Trophy. The award is given tto the best interior lineman. Trivia: Last player to win that one??
http://www.lsusports.net/ViewArticle.dbml?SPSID=27815&SPID=2164&DB_OEM_ID=5200&ATCLID=204773214

Chavis restoring LSU to defensive dominance

John Chavis and the defense are ready to start the season, are you?? Here is a pretty cool article about Chavis coming to BR and what he has done. I have to admit I am super stoked to see this year's defense. I have a feeling it is going to kick some major SEC butt.

LSU ranked #9 in Coaches' Poll

The coaches' put LSU at the #9 spot in the pre-season USA Today poll. Florida got the number one spot, Alabama at #5 (which is the biggest overrated BS ever), Ole Miss is 10, and to round out the SEC Georgia is 13. Anyone notice that LSU plays all of them. and 3 of the 4 are away games. Cupcake schedule right?? NOT!

Jefferson Named to O'Brien Watch List

Who saw this coming? Not me. Jordan Jefferson was named to the O'Brien Watch List along with 32 other NCAA Quarterbacks. The O'Brien Award is given to the best quarterback in college football annually.

Another Reason to Love Ciron Black

He may clear the path for Chuck the Truck's next touchdown, have class at SEC Media Days, and stay for his senior season, but this has to be the best reason to love Ciron Black. I remember hearing this story during the BCS National Championship, but it has seemed to grow. Ciron Black befriended a young cancer patient before the Tigers' 2007 National Championship and has stayed in touch with him since. The full story is through Sports Illistruated's Andy Staples.

Dickson is being Watched

No, Richard Dickson doesn't have a stalker, well not that I know of. But he is on the Watch list for the John Mackey Award which is given to the nation's best tight end every year. Dickson is entering his senior season and it is sure to be a good one.

Fun Fact: Richard's younger brother also plays tight end in Dickson's hometown of Ocean Springs, MS and he is being recruited by LSU.

Commitments #20 and #21

#20 Dexter Blackmon: Blackmon is a defensive lineman from Selma, Alabama who can play both end and tackle. He doesn't have much information on his Rivals profile which is usually what I use as my source. Tiger Rag has an article about him, but I am too lazy to read it. :)

#21 Spencer Ware: Now this guy is a beast and an half. Ware is duel threat quarterback that will most likely play running back at the college level. I have read that he is looking to play baseball as well which LSU is known for its two sport athletes. Ware is from up in Cincinnati, Ohio and was highly recruited by northern schools.

I didn't know this, but Tim Molton out for 2009

Apparently, Redshirt freshman wide receiver Tim Molton hurt his knee and is out for possibly the entire season :( I heard he tore his ACL. This happened back in June but I am just now hearing of it now. I am super depressed about this, I was looking forward to watching this guy. He was Jordan Jefferson's main target back at Destrahan High.

No Surprise here, Jefferson Named Starter

Les Miles has named Jefferson starter at the SEC Media Days. That's no shock after Lee's 14 to 7 TD to Pick 6 Ratio last season. But the bigger question was where id Russell Shepard fit in to all of this. The kid is an athlete, no doubt about that. He is a jack rabbit with the ball, got a decent arm, and a good head on his shoulders. Do I think he is ready for the SEC QB job? No, but he is ready to play, anywhere, and Les Miles agrees.

LSU Opener and ULL Game picked up by ESPNU, set for 6pm

LSU vs. Vandy and LSU vs. ULL will be on ESPNU at 6pm. ESPNU doesn't come with regular cable so if you aren't going to the game, you might have to order it. Those games are the second and third weekends in September.

Recruiting Update.... #17, #18, #19

Good Gosh, I should just do recruits in bulk. The Tigers have been racking up with verbal commitments this summer. Les Miles and Co. have adding three more in the last week or so..

#17 Elliot Porter- Porter is a four star defensive tackle from Archbishop Shaw. He is a big, strong guy that should make some noise up front. Committed: 7-18-09

#18 Jordan Allen- LSU's highest ranked commit thus far, Allen is an defensive end from West Monroe. He is a four star commit that I have heard alot about, but never really researched, I might get on that... Committed: 7-18-09

#19 Tyrann Mathieu- Another four star, Louisiana product, Mathieu is a cornerback from St. Augustine in New Orleans. The Advocate had good things to say about him but something worries me. He isn't very big, which for cornerback isn't really a deal breaker especially for his athleticism, but the wide receivers in the SEC are pretty tall while he is at 5'10". Committed: 7-21-09

SEC Media Days are Here

Yesterday was Day 3 of SEC Media Days and Les Miles took the podium. I watched it on ESPNU, but for those who couldn't here is Rivals.com summary of the LSU segment.

10 Tigers Make the Coaches' All-SEC Team

OT Ciron Black, RB Charles Scott, and TE Richard Dickson were selected for the All- SEC team by the coaches. The media will make their picks next week. Tigers on Second Team are WR Brandon LaFell, DT Charles Alexander, and FS Chad Jones. Third Team selections are WR Terrance Toliver, DE Rahim Alem, LB Perry Riley, and RS Trindon Holliday.

LSU Football Fan Day is going to be Aug. 9

LSU Football's annual fan day is set for Aug. 9 in the Baton Rouge River Center. Praise the Lord for the air conditioning. Doors open at 2:30 with the coaches and players out for autographs and pictures at 3:30 til 5. When they say done at 5, they mean done at 5 even if you were next in line. That happened to me two years ago in Jacob Hester's line :(. They will give out posters, schedule cards, and magnets. Admission is free...

Commitments #14, 15, 16

#14: Zach Lee- He is a two sport athlete that will play on the football team as Quaterback and pitching for the National Championship Tiger Baseball Team (shout out! Has it really been that long?). Lee is a four- star, pro-style QB from McKinnely, Texas. He is extremely smart too (4.8 GPA). He committed back on June 14.

#15: Houston Bates- Bates is a defensive end from St. Paul's in Covington. He is a three star end that plays mostly on the weakside of the line. From what I can see, he is very strong with a pretty good 40 time of 4.7, but hey, I am only a girl so what do I know, right? He committed back on June 17.

#16: Evan Washington- Some say this one is a rumor but I am going with it. Washington is a 4 star offensive lineman from DeSoto, TX. He was highly recruited by other major schools. A big guy at 6'5" and 290 pounds. Fun Fact: He is the son of former NFL defensive lineman Marvin Washington. He committed yesterday...

It has been awhile since I updated on recruiting and I will get you info ASAP. I am on vacation currently so as soon as I get back, I will update. I do know LSU has received at least 3 more verbal commits, info is coming soon...

For your entertainment....

Alabama has to give up possibly 21 wins due to violation of NCAA rules.

Recruiting Update.... #10, #11, #12, #13

So apparently LSU has received four more verbal commits for the 2010 class. I am just hearing of this now. So here are those who have committed in the past month.

10. Justin Maclin- A four star linebacker from Ridgeway High School in Memphis, Tennessee.
11. Ronnie Vinson- Another four star prospect from New Orleanse, Louisiana. He is an athlete that plays both sides of the ball for Newman High School.
12. Sam Gibson- An three star Athlete that mainly plays quarterback for Prattville High in Alabama.
13. Cameron Fordham- Listed as a three star tight end from Northview High School in Georgia.

http://www.tigerrag.com/?p=11607
http://www.tigerrag.com/?p=11655
http://www.tigerrag.com/?p=11690

Holliday ran a 10.01 second 100 meter dash

Talk about running, this past weekend in the SEC Championships Trindon Holliday recorded his personal best of a 10.01, 100 meter dash.

Run Rocket Run!!

LSU to Retire Tommy Casanova's Jersey

LSU will retire Tiger Great Tommy Casanova's jersey in the next year LSU announced. The retired number is 37. He played defensive back and half-back along with returning punts and kickoffs. The jersey will be retired during a game this season, which one will be said at a later date.

Commitment #9: Justin Hunter

Happy Mother's Day Tiger Moms, you get a four-start commit out of Virginia Beach. Justin Hunter is a great Wide Receiver from Ocean Lakes High School. (I would just like to point out the oxymoron in the name of the school, it is hilarious) I will watch the highlight video and get back to you.

My Take on the BCS

Lately, there has been alot of talks with the current BCS system. Heck, the BCS coordinator is in Washington, D.C. right now for a hearing with Congress. Currently the BCS has 6 computers that weigh a number of things in calibration with the Harris Poll determine the BCS rankings. At the the end of regular season (first weekend in December, usually), the BCS selection begins. The winners of the BCS conferences aka "The Big Six" (ACC, Big Ten, Big 12, Big East, Pac-10, SEC) are automatically given a bid to a bowl and some will go to a specific bowl if not in the top 2 in which the team would go to the National Championship. For example, SEC winner would go to the Sugar, ACC to the Orange, Pac-10 and Big Ten to the Rose, and Big 12 to Fiesta. This system is flawed no doubt, but not enough to go to freaking Congress about. Biggest flaws: 2003, The supposed AP National Champion (can I get a BS?): Oklahoma and LSU were #1 & 2 in the final BCS so they play in the National Championship while #3 USC was pissed because they thought they should play in the game (technically they should have, Oklahoma lost their conference championship) and went to the Rose Bowl. USC crushed some team I can't remember (Michigan, I am pretty sure) and LSU beat Oklahoma (hopefully you knew that one.). So the final polls come out and BAM, controversy. So all the polls had LSU at #1 except for the AP Poll which had no other than USC as #1. USC claimed to be the "AP National Champion" (which suddenly was serious claim to National Champion, can I get another BS?) So USC claims to have won the National Championship in 2003 even though they didn't win the National Championship Game. Next year, Auburn goes undefeated in the toughest conference in NCAA Football, but Oklahoma and USC are 1, 2 (a 3rd BS please?). USC crushed Oklahoma (I was in middle school at the time and saw that coming) in the National Championship and Auburn beat Virginia Tech in the Sugar Bowl. They were selected as #1 in a few polls, but is their a shared National Championship? Umm.. No because USC won the game. (A 4th BS please??) So the point is BCS isn't the best system in the world, but it works. This past weekend some hearings were held in Congress about the BCS. They are claiming that isn't fair to non-Big Six schools. For example, Utah last year went undefeated and wasn't able to enter the National Championship, but they did kick Satan's butt in the Sugar Bowl so they get a big trophy in my book. So people are mad. I get it. My solution: it may not tailor to the "little schools", but I have a solution for them as well. So there needs to be a playoff, no doubt about that. When there is a playoff, usually controversy doesn't stalk it. I think the playoff should have the 6 conference champions of the Big Six getting automatic bids, then two at-large bids. The at-large bids can go to the little schools and they can win their way to the big game. If they still don't think that is fair, then they should be allowed to join the Big Six Conference of their choice. Heck Joe Pa (Joe Paterno) said this weekend that he wants Notre Dame to join the Big Ten and create a conference championship game. The ACC, SEC, and Big 12 have 12 teams in the conference, that could be the limit. Therefore, 1 team could join the Big Ten (like Notre Dame) and 2 teams could join the Pac-10 (like Hawaii or Utah and Boise State). If you notice I left out the Big East, it is because there are 8 teams in the Big East that play football at the Division 1 level but a total of 17 teams all together. So technically 4 teams could join there as football, but that might be stretching it, or IDEA!! Form a new conference with the Big East Football teams and 4 others. Okay not a great idea, but it isn't my job to come up with this stuff, I just blog about it. If they don't join a conference then they need to strengthen their schedule and get noticed.

So I know this was kind of a rant, but I had fun with it. What do you think about the BCS?? Should a playoff happen and if so how does it include non-Big Six teams in a "fair" way?

By the way: I do know I talk in parenthesis. I speak in parenthesis in regular conversation too. It is a bad habit that my mother makes fun of me for so yeah, get over it.

LSU ranked #13 out of Spring

Andy Staples from Sports Illustrated posted his Top 25 out of Spring and LSU make the list at 13. That SEC team with the stupid arm motions topped the list. To finish out the SEC, Ole Miss is at 7, Nick Satan's team is at 10, and Georgia comes in at 15.

4 More LSU Players Sign in Free Agency

I told you about Darry Beckwith yesterday. Four more signed as well. Marlon Favorite signed with Carolina Panthers. Kirston Pittman signed with St. Louis. Brett Helms is with the Houston Texans. Tremaine Johnson went to the Minnesota Vikings.

On a draft note: Kansas City is the first team in history to select a player from the same school in the first round for three straight years. (Jackson, Dorsey, Bowe)

Chad Jones Pitches in Sunday's Baseball Game

Yeah, I said it and I am not joking. LSU's two sport, outfielder/free safety, superstar athlete pitched to two batters yesterday in the final game of the LSU-Auburn Baseball Series. (LSU swept Auburn). Auburn loaded the bases when the Jones came in to face the clean-up and five hole hitter. (yes, I know baseball too). Jones was throwing a 92 mph fastball. (Insert jaw drop here). He also threw a slider that was just plain nasty. He struck out both of the batters before Mattie Ott came in to finish the game. Good God, is there anything this guy can't do???

The link is to the Advocate's story on the game.

6 Tigers Taken in the Draft

6 former Tigers were selected in the NFL Draft over the weekend. Tyson Jackson was a surprise 3rd overall pick to join Glenn Dorsey with the Kansas City Chiefs. Here is the list of the 6 Tigers:

1. Tyson Jackson, Kansas City, Round 1, 3rd Pick Overall
2. Quinn Johnson, Green Bay, Round 5, 145th Pick Overall
3. Herman Johnson, Arizona, Round 5, 167th Pick Overall
4. Curtis Taylor, San Francisco, Round 7, 219th Pick Overall
5. Demetrius Byrd, San Diego, Round 7, 224th Pick Overall
6. Ricky Jean-Francois, San Francisco, Round 7, 244th Overall Pick

Darry Beckwith was signed in free agent with San Diego

I am glad to see Byrd get taken despite his car accident last week. And with Tyson Jackson being picked in the first round that makes the sixth straight year that a LSU player was taken in the first round which makes the longest active streak, I believe second overall to Miami.
Can you name the players to go the last six years in the first round??

2004: Michael Clayton
2005: Marcus Spears
2006: Joseph Addai
2007: JaMarcus Russel, LaRon Landry, Dwayne Bowe, Craig Davis
2008: Glenn Dorsey
2009: Tyson Jackson

2010 Recruiting Update

It seems I have missed some verbal commitments for LSU's 2010 commitments. Last week a linebacker/ safety from Klien, Texas, Luke Muncie, committed to the Tigers.
Via Rivals.com: "LSU continued its hot start when it landed Luke Muncie, a linebacker from Klein (Texas) Oak. It was the Tigers' eighth commitment, and it was a very welcome addition. Muncie, who could also play safety in college, chose LSU over offers from Michigan, Texas A&M, Oklahoma State, Arkansas, Arizona and many others.

'I've liked LSU since I was little,' Muncie said. 'I just watched them on television and I've (been) around the campus a couple of times. I couldn't be happier with my decision.'"

That make the 7th (even though Rivals says eighth I can't find that missing one) commitment. Tiger Rag has the list and the link is in the title!!

Answers to Spring Practice Questions

So I was unable to go the Spring Game. I had a Convention that weekend and I couldn't work around it, believe me, I tried. I read some recaps and I will answer my questions from earlier this month to the best of my ability and knowledge. If I leave some blank, feel free to answer them yourself.


1. Who will step up as quarterback?
- As I thought, Jordan Jefferson pretty much looked like the starter in the game even though Les Miles will never say it.

2. Will people finally give Charles Scott the attention he deserves??
- Scott got some good runs and plays in the game, but I was looking for national attention. News of the Spring Game didn't even show up on ESPN.com.

3. Will the Wide Receiver Corps be unstoppable?
- I haven't heard much about the receivers' performance. Anyone care to shed some light??

4. Where will they use Russell Sheppard?
- In the Spring Game, Sheppard was used only at QB and from what I hear, wasn't the best performance (7 of 12, 70 yards passing). He even channeled Jarrett Lee and gave up a interception returned for a touchdown by Patrick Peterson. Okay the Jarrett Lee thing was cold, but I couldn't help myself. My apologizes.

5. Can John Chavis bring back LSU's defensive dominance in one year??
- From what I have read, the defense seems to be looking great which will help me sleep at night.

6. Who will step up on the defensive line??
- Lazarius Levingston had a great game. Otherwise, I haven't heard anything

7. Has the defensive backs improved?
- Coleman has moved to Linebacker (why couldn't they use that same method with Danny McCray). Patrick Peterson... um yeah see number 4. :) Overall though they seem to be seriously improving.

8. Do we have a kicker??
- I've got nothing. Help...

Former Tiger Receiver Demetruis Byrd Injured in Miami Car Crash

Byrd was in an accident on Sunday while on his way to church in Miami and was put in the ICU. No injuries seem to be life threatening or threatening to his football career, but no one can confirm that for sure. Byrd is a NFL Draft Prospect and my prayers go out to him for a quick recovery and I hope this doesn't affect his draft standing. He is a great player and I wish him the best. As I find more I will post Updates on this post, so go to this post to see the latest news that I can find.

UPDATE: Detail of the crash have been released. Byrd hit a utility pole and no other cars were involved. Byrd is awake and talking in the hospital.

Here is the Advocate's article that has more information than ESPN
http://www.2theadvocate.com/sports/43324237.html

Sweet... It worked...

This is a test for posting from my phone. Real posts are coming soon, I promise.

Spring Practice Questions...

So I have been reading alot of stuff lately about LSU's Spring Practice and I have some questions... I am going to put them up here and after the Spring Game we will see if they will be answered..

1. Who will step up as quarterback? Most reports say that Jordan Jefferson pretty much has a lock on the starting role for next year. (I might regret saying this but..) Jarrett Lee has natural talent and he did well in yesterday's scrimmage (link posted) so is the race bigger than we think??

2. Will people finally give Charles Scott the attention he deserves?? He had a great year last year, but was never recognize for his efforts. Hopefully he will continue to improve over spring and blast out in the fall.

3. Will the Wide Receiver Corps be unstoppable? LaFell is back and so are a bunch of extremely talented wide receivers. Also Randle will step on campus in the fall. With all these guys lining up, will LSU have the receiver corps that keeps Defensive Coordinators up all night??

4. Where will they use Russell Sheppard? The kid is awesome, there is no doubt about it, but he is not a SEC quarterback at the moment. His arm could use some work, but when he has the ball in his hands he is dangerous. He has been taking reps at wide receiver and running back along with his quarterback duties. Will Russell Sheppard be the new and improved version Percy Harvin??

5. Can John Chavis bring back LSU's defensive dominance in one year?? Chavis is one of the best defensive coordinators in the country and he inherited some amazing talent. Linebackers should benefit most from his experience and the young defensive backfield seems to improving. How well though??

6. Who will step up on the defensive line?? LSU lost major people on the Defensive Line but there is talent to fill the spots, but young and inexperienced talent. Alexander, Nevis, and Alem are the only ones back with serious playing experience. How much will that help??

7. Has the defensive backs improved? Last year the defensive backs were getting eaten for breakfast. I am hearing that Harry Coleman and Chad Jones are the #1 safeties and Patrick Peterson (my sophomore) and Chris Hawkins are your corners but beware of Ron Brooks, Daniel Graft, and Brandon Taylor are getting some serious looks too. Will we have a defensive back competition??

8. Do we have a kicker?? I am hearing bad to nothing about special teams beside the fact that Ron Brooks is going to return kicks along Trindon Holliday. Josh Jasper has been punting and place kicking but that isn't Miles's favorite thing to do. Where is Derek Helton that I heard so much about??

Spring Practice Update

Wow, it has been awhile and life has been crazy. April will be worse for me so beware... Here is an update on Spring Practice that is in today's Baton Rouge's Advocate....

Defensive Spring Preview

TigerRag's Matt Deville checks out the defense.

Rivals.com LSU Spring Preview

Another Spring Preview. Nuf Said, but I have a small problem with it. If you read TigerRag's that posted the other day, they talked about the quarterback position and its problems last year. When Deville mentioned Jarrett Lee, he said Lee threw 6 interceptions that were returned for touchdowns. In Rivals.com they say he threw 8. Alright, he threw 7 people. It is really sad that a girl knows that by heart and people who are paid to do that stuff can't even look it up. Just saying...


UPDATE: So I did look it up and he did throw 7 interceptions returned for touchdowns. 2 in the Georgia Game and one in each against Auburn, Florida, Tulane, Alabama, and Troy. So yeah.... I win

Spring Practice Starts Today

LSU football will start Spring Practice today at 4pm. It will end on April 18th with the Spring Game, time TBD. Click the Title for the jump to The Advocate.

Also, Bryce Brown will announce his college choice next Monday (16th), but I have a thought that my dad put in my head. Do we really want him? I mean this guy held his choice for a month and a half after everyone else to make his own media day. It seems his guy has a big head. And the last guy who was a high profile LSU recruit and had a big head was kicked off the team for off-the-field problems *cough* Ryan Perrilloux *cough*. If you ask me, I think we would be fine without a "superstar" like that. I would take good people that are good players anyday....

Spring Practice Preview: Tiger Rag

Here is TigerRag's Offensive Preview for Spring Practice which starts tomorrow. I could do my own Spring Preview but I let you just read Matt Deville's instead.

I know I have explaning to do...

but I swear I thought I did this before I left. I left last Friday to go to France (yes, France). I got back Saturday and have been busy ever since. In case you are wondering, I had a great trip but the depriving of LSU almost killed me. My dad was keeping me updated so now let me get you updated...

I know this is a football blog but shout out to LSU basketball who claimed the SEC title on Wednesday by beating Florida.
Also Congrats to the Baseball team who opening the new (and beautiful) Alex Box Stadium with 7 straight wins. I went yesterday to see the Stadium for the first time and it was amazing!! Congrats to football/ baseball players Jared Mitchel and Chad Jones on their awesome homeruns yesterday. It was Jones's first carrer home run! A family friend Austin Nola hit his first homerun yesterday too so a special Congrats to him as well.

Okay now football. As hinting earlier this year, LSU and West Virginia will play each other in 2010 and 2011. LSU will play at home first in 2010 then travel to WV the next year. Hopefully this will get everyone off LSU's back will the whole cupcake schedule thing. Here is the ESPN article.
http://sports.espn.go.com/ncf/news/story?id=3937054

I said before I left that #1 prospect Bryce Brown was coming to town and he did this past weekend. The visit seemed to go very well, but we won't know how well until the 16th. Some people asked me about the rumor that Miami was dropping their scholarship offer, but I haven't heard anything official just that it is a rumor. Here is a break down of his visit from Potential Players.com
http://www.potentialplayers.com/news_events_detail.aspx?id=76

Saturday was Junior day at LSU and the Tigers picked up four commitments for the class of 2010. I haven't got the time to check them out so why dont you save me some time and let me know??? Tharold Simon, Nic Jacobs, Mike Davis, and Brandon Worle are the future Tigers. Here is the Nola.com article.
http://highschoolsports.nola.com/news/article/698543471/lsu-lands-first-four-football-commitments-for-2010/

I think that covers it for now at least. I like this maybe I should just do once a week updates... Mondays good??? Enjoy your week and GEAUX TIGERS!!!

Bryce Brown is Coming to Town

The number 1 prospect in the nation plans an unofficial visit to Baton Rouge next weekend (Feb 27-28). He is verbally committed to Miami but has publicly displayed interest in other schools. He pulled a Terrelle Pryor and chose not to sign on Feb. 4. He will pick a college March 16. The article is from the Advocate.

Happy Valentine's Day!!

I hope everyone enjoys today. It looks like my valentine is going to be Mike the Tiger....

Anyway, I decided to make a FanNation account on SI.com. My name there is theLSUgirl so find me and ask to be my friend. I haven't really played with it so I am not totally sure how to do anything, but hey, it could be fun.

Henson leaves for Mizzou, BC's Don Yanowsky joins staff

Long time Tight-End coach and recruiting coordinator Josh Henson has left for a higher coaching poisition at Missouri. Henson has been with Les Miles since Henson was a lineman at Oklahoma State. Les Miles announced yesterday that Boston College's Don Yanowsky will take over his positions. Yanowsky has had some real sucess at BC with recruiting with loads of experience. He should be a nice addition to the revamped staff.

On a Personal Note: Congrats to my brother was accepted to LSU Medical School in New Orleans yesterday!!!

Better Late than Never: Alexander gets 6th Year

I said this last week but I am just getting around to finding the article. Charles Alexander gets a 6th year of eligibility for the Tigers. He has been injured twice during his LSU career that sidelined him. He will be the only returning starter to the line for next year.

Final List From Tiger Droppings

Who has signed and when:
1. Drayton Calhoun, ATH, Tucker, GA, Enrolled
2. Chris Garrett, QB, Tupelo, MS, Enrolled
3. Derek Helton, P, Fort Scott, KS, Enrolled
4. Kevin Minter, LB, Suwanee, GA, Enrolled
5. Russell Shepard, QB, Houston, TX, Enrolled
6. Michael Ford, RB Leesville, LA, 8:08am
7. Stavion Lowe, OT, Brownwood, Texas, 8:17am
8. Josh Williford, OT, Dothan, AL, 8:25am
9. Michael Brockers, DE Houston, TX, 8:30am
10. Chris Faulk, OT, Slidell, LA, 8:37am
11. Tahj Jones, LB, Sulphur, LA, 8:45am
12. Lamin Barrow, LB, Marrero, LA, 8:50am
13. Barkevious Mingo, DE, West Monroe, LA, 9:49am
14. Carneal Ainsworth, OG, Baton Rouge, LA, 9:59am
15. Josh Downs, DT Bastrop, LA, 10:05am
16. Craig Loston, S, Aldine, TX, 10:09am
17. Dominque Allen, FB, Paris, TN, 10:14am
18. Bennie Logan, DE, Coushatta, LA, 10:20am
19. Chris Davenport, DT, Mansfield, LA, 10:47am
20. Akiem Hicks, DT, Sacramento, CA (JUCO), 10:55am
21. Morris Claiborne, DB, Shreveport, LA, 11:37am
22. Josh Johns, DB, Baton Rouge, LA, 12:39pm
23. Sam Montgomery, DE, Greenwood, SC, 1:38pm
24. Rueben Randle, WR, Bastrop, LA, 5:29pm
25. Rockey Duplessis, S, Belle Chasse, LA, Enrolled

Janzen Jackson is expected to sign in the next few minutes.
UPDATE: Jackson shocked the LSU Football world by signing with Tennessee

RANDLE PICKS LSU!!!

Randle made it official and will sign with LSU today. Some notable stories for today: DeAngelo Benton who has signed with LSU the past two years has been rumored to have signed with Auburn though no one can confirm that. Also LSU picked up a major out of state player in Sam Montgomery!!! As of right now LSU is at 23 not counting Randle who has not been posted on LSUsports.net yet, so that is what I am going with. The article is Tiger Rag though which says he has signed. Here is the list so far.



National Signing Day is here...

by Chicken on Feb 3, 2009 at 11:26 pm	Comments (5)

TigerDroppings.com will be tracking the players that have signed National Letters of Intent to play football at LSU in 2009.

Who has signed and when:
1. Drayton Calhoun, ATH, Tucker, GA, Enrolled
2. Chris Garrett, QB, Tupelo, MS, Enrolled
3. Derek Helton, P, Fort Scott, KS, Enrolled
4. Kevin Minter, LB, Suwanee, GA, Enrolled
5. Russell Shepard, QB, Houston, TX, Enrolled
6. Michael Ford, RB Leesville, LA, 8:08am
7. Stavion Lowe, OT, Brownwood, Texas, 8:17am
8. Josh Williford, OT, Dothan, AL, 8:25am
9. Michael Brockers, DE Houston, TX, 8:30am
10. Chris Faulk, OT, Slidell, LA, 8:37am
11. Tahj Jones, LB, Sulphur, LA, 8:45am
12. Lamin Barrow, LB, Marrero, LA, 8:50am
13. Barkevious Mingo, DE, West Monroe, LA, 9:49am
14. Carneal Ainsworth, OG, Baton Rouge, LA, 9:59am
15. Josh Downs, DT Bastrop, LA, 10:05am
16. Craig Loston, S, Aldine, TX, 10:09am
17. Dominque Allen, FB, Paris, TN, 10:14am
18. Bennie Logan, DE, Coushatta, LA, 10:20am
19. Chris Davenport, DT, Mansfield, LA, 10:47am
20. Akiem Hicks, DT, Sacramento, CA (JUCO), 10:55am
21. Morris Claiborne, DB, Shreveport, LA, 11:37am
22. Josh Johns, DB, Baton Rouge, LA, 12:39pm
23. Sam Montgomery, DE, Greenwood, SC, 1:38pm

"And ... here... we... go"

Yes, I am quoting the Joker, but it is freaking SIGNING DAY!!! Which is the 4th best day of the year behind my birthday, Christmas, and Opening day. Instead of posting everytime a commit goes, I will post a list at the end of the day. I will post Rueble Randle's decision as it happens at 12:30pm.

Off topic here but, I am hearing that Charles Alexander has been granted a 6th year of eligibility by the NCAA. I can't find an article confirming that but if I do I will let you know.

Commitment #22: Tahj Jones

The Sulfur Linebacker committed to LSU yesterday. I don't have time to give you the full post. This is a crazy week. I think I am going to the Bayou Bash tomorrow, but that all depends if my father is coming with me.

Commitment #21: Bennie Logan

LSU picked up another commit this past weekend when Les Miles offered Bennie Logan a scholarship. Logan is a defensive end from Coushatta, La. He is fast and strong, i can tell that from the stats. I haven't watched the video yet so can't say much. The Advocate had an article in the paper today.

http://www.2theadvocate.com/sports/lsu/featured/38437669.html

Spring Game Set- April 18th

Spring Practice starts March 12th with the game being April 18th. The time will be set closer to the date.

Randle Takes His Official Visit to LSU

No article jump here, this is first hand account. Rueben Randle was in town for his official visit along with 13 other commit/ prospects. They were all at the LSU Men's Basketball game against Xavier. I have to say it was rather funny to see the amount of signs and shirts for Rueben Randle. He had to be enjoying that. The front row of the student section each had a sign with a letter spelling out his name. A few had shirts like "Rueben, there is no place like home." Some posters showed up to. My favorite was one that said "Rueben Randle- Best Hands, LSU- Best Fans." Then of course when he walked in the student section along with devoted football fans, like myself chanted his name. Talk about ego boost. I know he didn't get that type of reception at Alabama.

WR Dixon is Transferring

Ricky Dixon is transferring to Texas Southern University in order to get more playing time. The article says that this is due to LaFell's return. I hope Reuben Randle doesn't feel the same way since most recruiting experts think that he will be a Tiger next year. Dixon was teammates with former Tiger Ryan Perriloux at East St. John. We wish him well...

Another Blogger's Reasons to Fear LSU in 2009

I like this alot!! I like this guy!!

ESPN's Prestige Rankings: LSU #13

ESPN has been counting down the best college football programs and LSU ends up in the #13. Click the title for the jump. I learned something new today: LSU is the only school to have a first round draft pick in the last 5 years. This year will be 6 with Herman Johnson.

Pratt decommits, but Tigers Pick up Local Boy

Running Back Dexter Pratt decommited from the Tigers and is going to Oklahoma State. Pratt was supposed to enroll last week, but changed his commit instead. I can see why though, he could get some playing time as a freshman with the Cowboys, but not at LSU with Scott, Williams, and Murphy in front of him.

Though it is not on Rivals.com's commit list, defensive back Josh Johns from Central High School here in Baton Rouge commited to the Tigers. He talked to The Advocate about possiblity "gray shirting" and enrolling in 2010. He was an 5A All-State player with the State Semi-finalist Central Wildcats. Most people compare him to Craig Steltz.
Here is that article:
http://www.2theadvocate.com/sports/lsu/37703899.html

LaFell Withdrawls from Draft

Brandon LaFell decided to stay for his senior season giving LSU a big boost considering the information I have received. Jared Mitchell will not return to the football team next year. He wants to constrate on baseball. Chris Mitchell is also rumored to not return but I don't know why. That would mean if LaFell left, the Tigers would have lost 4 of thier top 6 receivers. I am still hoping for Rueben Randle to commit and I hear LSU is the front-runner. We shall see....

LaFell Declared for the NFL Draft

As rumored before, wide receiver Brandon LaFell declared for the NFL Draft. All of Tiger Town should wish him good luck in the future. Now let's get Rueben Randle!!!

BTW: This is the 200th post on the LSU Football Blog!!!! YAY!!!

Hatch is Leaving; Maybe Returning to Harvard

Les Miles said that Andrew Hatch is not returning but the question is where. It is reported that his plan is to go back to Harvard, but a newspaper said that Harvard isn't accepting transfers for another year. That should be interesting...

Scott and Black Staying!!!!

YAY!!!!

ESPN was right, that is different.

YAY!!!

Charles Scott for Heisman 2009!!!

It is too early, but I am so happy that Scott and Black are staying.

ESPN Reports: LaFell going to the NFL, Scott and Black staying

This is a ESPN Report so you never know, but it makes me feel better. I was never a huge fan of LaFell, but I wish him luck in the NFL. I don't think he will make an immediate impact, but it will build. He has a future. I am just SO GLAD Scott is staying!!! I will post again at 2pm, to re-enforce this post or call ESPN idiots once again.

Scott, Black to Annouce Future Plans TODAY @ 2

Charles Scott and Ciron Black are going to announce whether or not they are leaving for the NFL, today at 2pm. Why would they need a press conference if they were staying?? God, I hope they don't go. Scott was the heart of the team this year and the Tigers could use his and Black's help not only as leaders, but in the running game as well. As soon as I hear I will let you know...

DON'T GO CHUCK THE TRUCK!!!!

Looking too far Ahead, but okay

There are already some 2009 Preseason Top 25 polls out. Yeah, I know... these people need lives.

Rivals.com has LSU at #5.
http://collegefootball.rivals.com/content.asp?CID=898567

ESPN.com has LSU at #9.
http://sports.espn.go.com/ncf/columns/story?columnist=schlabach_mark&id=3818270

Si.com's Stewart Mandel has LSU at #9.
http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2009/writers/stewart_mandel/01/09/early-top10/index.html?eref=T1

Rumor Bust: Washington Game is Sept. 5

The 2009 Season opener will be play in Seattle on Sept. 5 not the third. LSU will travel west to play Washington. No set time for kickoff yet but hey it is 234 days away!!

I'm getting caught up....

Just when I thought there would be a break for me, the news keeps coming. First, something I missed on Friday. Les Miles official announced that he hired Brick Haley as the new Defensive Line Coach. He is from the Chicago Bears' famous defenses. Now here's the interesting part, Earl Lane will now be in an administrative position. I am glad he is staying, I have met him before and he is extremely nice not to mention a good recruiter.

More is on the way...

Russell Shepard: More than an Athlete

Here is an awesome article from Saturday's Advocate. Normally I would have this up earlier, but I never got to it. It tells the story of Russell Shepard that you didn't know. I am actually going to the the Wikipedia thing. Read the article to understand.

First Day of College for 7 LSU Recruits

5 guys are just out of high school and the other two are a transfer student and a signee from last year's class.

Kevin Minter
Chris Garrett
Russell Shepard
Drayton Calhoun
Rockey Duplessis
Dexter Pratt
Derek Helton

The jump is to The Advocate.

How did my preseason predictions do??

Here are the predictions I made in the beginning of the season and let's see how I did.


- Michigan loses opener to Utah
*I was dead on about this one. +1
- Ohio State Beats USC, easily
*Okay so I underestimated USC or overestimated Ohio State. -1.5, I was pretty off on this one
- Alabama having another okay season putting doubts in Nick Saban
*Way off on this one to except that the Sugar Bowl looked pretty bad and he is taking some heat for it. -1
- Clemson beating Alabama
*I know, I know. FAIL! -1.5 I was pretty off on this one too.
- LSU winning a close game at Auburn and having only one loss, Flordia
*Okay so I got the close win at Auburn and the loss at Florida, but not the number of losses. That's 2 out of 3. Not bad for a chick. +.5
- LSU brings back its fourth quarter come back to beat Georgia
*Prediction FAIL, again. I know, don't judge. -1
- Georgia having at least 2 losses before November
*If the second loss was on Nov. 1, can this still count?? Close enough, I say it does. +.5
- LSU meeting Flordia for a second time in Atlanta
*My third FAIL, but hey I got one team right. +.5
- USC losing to an unranked team, again. (When I say unranked, like lower than 60)
* Finally SUCCESS!!! +1
- LSU will have a two quarterback offense (Just don't ask me who)
*Well this is sort true, in a way. I never said what type of two quarterback offense nor did I say that it would always be the same two. +1
- Arkansas will be this year's Ole Miss
*I meant this in a bad way, but now I can't decide if this is right. Let's call this one a draw. No points
- Mississippi State will surprise someone
*There are 2 game that I consider surprise. First the Auburn game which they lost 3-2 (???) and second the Vanderbilt game which they won 17-14. So I consider this one SUCCESS. +1
- Notre Dome will flop again
*SUCCESS. +1
- Oklahoma will play Ohio State in Miami
*I got one team right? +.5
- A Texas Tech player will win the Heisman.
*A Texas Tech player wasn't even invited even though Harrell should have been. -1

So I ended up with one point total. That isn't horrible, okay maybe it is.
Well it was a er, fun season. I guess.

I will get you up to date with recruiting, but I definitely won't be posting as much. Countdown to 2009 season has begun. 238 DAYS!!!

Til the next recruit or February 4th (Signing Day).

LSU's new DBs Coach: Ron Cooper

Ron Cooper from South Carolina has joined the Defensive Staff for the Tigers. Cooper has a great deal of experience in an area that the Tigers struggled with this season. He has been a head coach it a few smaller college before he got more involved in the assistant coaching.

Two more Defensive Coaches on the way???

A recent article says that two more defensive coaches are on their way to Baton Rouge. Click the title for the jump. Sorry I normally tell all the juicy stuff but I have to be quick. It is from LSUbeat.com

John Chavis is LSU's new Defensive Coordinator

Head Coach Les Miles announced yesterday that former Tennessee Defensive Coordinator John Chavis will take over the LSU Defense. To say the defensive underperformed this regular season is an almost understatement. John Chavis is known for his awesome defenses and should take LSU to better defensive heights. He is already hit the recruiting trail which can only mean good things for the Tigers... Only 241 days til the Tigers start the 2009 season... we shall see...

It's Official: Commitment #21 Craig Loston

After months of questions, Craig Loston finally put on his LSU hat. He will be joining his cousin, Russell Shepard on the Tiger team next year. Loston is a 6-2, 193 pound Safety from Aldine, TX. He is a five star making the 4th five star to commit this year's class. He decommitted from Clemson after its coaching changes. CHECK HIM OUT!!! He is playing Sunday in the Under Armour All- American Bowl.

Russell Shepard: Commitment and Recruiter

Read the Article... Pretty self-explanatory.
It does say that Craig Loston will announce his decision on colleges today!!!
Andre Debose will announce his choice on Sunday!!

Atlanta and LSU QBs: Is Jefferson Next?

Atlanta has been the coming out party for a few LSU QBs. Three to be exact, which two of them led the Tigers to a National Championship. Do you know who they are??? Follow the Jump to TigerRag's article to find out.

Looking to the Future Special... Army and Under Armour All-American Bowls

Such I am such a awesome person, I took the time to search the rosters for this weekend's high school bowl games to find the LSU prospects participating in them. There are two of these bowls by which the player is individual invited.

Army hosts one that will be played on Saturday at noon, televised on NBC. Teams are divided by East and West. Here are the prospects and/or commitments playing along with the jersey number they will be wearing and their position. Players that are bolded and italic are verbal commitments.

East:
#23 Jon Bostic- LB
#73 William Campbell- DT
#79 Marcus Hall- OT
#45 Jarvis Jones- LB
#71 Xavier Nixon- OT

West:
#47 Chris Davenport- DT
#60 Chris Faulk- OT
#08 Kendall Kelly- WR
#91 Barkevious Mingo- LB
#05 Rueben Randle- WR

Who I am watching: I am definitly watching Davenport and Faulk, but keep an eye on Rueben Randle. He was just upgraded to #1 on Rivals100 List. He is rumored to narrowed his college choices to LSU and Alabama, and a good friend of his is no other than Russell Shepard.

Under Armour All- American Bowl is Sunday at 7pm on ESPN. I am not sure how the teams are spilt but they will be different by uniform colors Black and White.

Black:
#10 Russell Shepard- QB
#01 Andre Debose- WR
#08 Dyron Dye- DE
#77 Josh Downs- DT
#09 Ray Ray Armstrong- ATH/ DB
#01 Darren Myles Jr.- S

White:
#04 Marlon Brown- WR
#59 John Martinez- OG
#56 Xavier Su'a Filo- OG
#64 Stavion Lowe- OT
#26 Sam Montgomery- DE
#09- Craig Loston- S

Who I am watching: Everyone will have their eye on Russell Shepard who will be starting LSU classes in a few weeks. I have heard alot about Debose and am curious on what the fuss is about. Craig Loston as explain before is a disputed commit, but I am seriously hoping that becomes a soild commit come Spring.

UPDATE: Craig Loston official committed to LSU on Jan. 2.

Chick- Fil- A Bowl: LSU 38 Georgia Tech 3

Alot of people asked me nah, tell me that LSU would get blown out of this game. I keep telling people not to write LSU out of it because of two things: LSU would have a brand new offensive with Jordan Jefferson as the starting quarterback and the defensive had everything to prove because of some of their performances this season. Psh... I was right on both of those. Why don't people listen to me? Also I do think that GT was overrated. Everyone bet on there running game. Their defense was sub-par and the passing game proved to be inaccurate. Props to Charles Scott for having another awesome performance running it down the throat. Also a great special teams night, stopping a fake punt, executing a fake punt and a onside kick, and recovering a fumbled punt.

Game Ball: Jordan Jefferson- I was a little worried that Jefferson would get a little nervous as a freshman in a bowl game and not play to the best of his ability, but he played better than most upperclassmen. BTW: How did he make that pitch to Charles Scott?

Brownie Points: Chad Jones- This season I feel like he underperformed, but in this game I feel like he could have won defensive MVP.

Looking to the Future: Ron Brooks- He had a great game on special teams and makes me wonder how much he will impact when gets some defensive snaps.