On a night in which coach Les Miles was carried off the field by his players and saluted the LSU student section in Tiger Stadium, the biggest surprise occurred in his post-game press conference. But LSU fans can certainly exhale in relief because Miles appears to be remaining at as the head coach for at least another season. “Victory is always enjoyed, especially when it comes a couple of weeks late”, Miles said.
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As the clock expired and firework were fired from the south endzone, LSU head coach Les Miles was carried by Christian LaCouture and Vadal Alexander from midfield to the northwest corner of the stadium where the Golden Band from Tigerland played the LSU Alma Mater.
Leonard Fournette’s performance gave him LSU’s single-season rushing record at 1,741 yards, surpassing the mark of 1,686 yards set by Charles Alexander in 1977. No. But Fournette was a star, and LSU’s defense held the Texas A&M offense to a sole touchdown.
Miles entered with the best winning percentage (.774) of any coach in the past 100 years of LSU football. He said LSU President F. King Alexander informed him first, followed by Alleva. That’s what you have to do if you want to be good in this league. As a team, we prayed together, trying to find answers, why it happened like that.
“I now know what it’s like to ride on an elephant”, said Miles, who also will not have to deal with the elephant in the room – his once shaky job status – as he had over the last three weeks amid a three-game losing streak.
They got a fifth consecutive win over the rival Aggies (8-4, 4-4), remaining the only team in the SEC West with an undefeated mark against them since A&M joined the league in 2012.
The Tigers (8-3) added field goals of 32 and 38 yards by Trent Domingue, but Domingue missed three others from 25, 50 and 46 yards. He coached most of the Tigers’ defensive starters a year ago.
LSU players didn’t find out until word began circulating about Alleva’s announcement. “I’m glad he’s my coach and I’m looking forward to keep playing for him”.
LSU linebacker Deion Jones (45) and defensive end Lewis Neal (92) sack Texas A&M quarterback Kyle Allen (10) during the first half an NCAA college football game in Baton Rouge, La., Saturday, Nov. 28, 2015. It was a fitting victory for a fourth-place finish in the SEC West and an 8-3 season.
LSU running back Derrius Guice rushed 50 yards for a TD. The reports of Miles’ job instability have reached many fans, and they made sure to express their opinion on the matter: They’re behind their coach. “Oh, OK, so then basically there’s not a serious overhaul because the motor seems to be pretty stinking strong”, Miles said.
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Inside Death Valley before kickoff, the crowd roared when Miles was introduce during Senior Day ceremonies. Somewhere in the middle of a three hour plus Les Miles lovefest, a football game was played.
