Something seemed off about the LSU defense today. Not to take anything away from Malik Zaire, Everett Golson and the Notre Dame offense, but the Bayou Bengals D just weren’t themselves. LSU came in as 7.5 point favorites, but they couldn’t seem to stop the Irish at all in the first half.
The rumors surrounding LSU Defensive Coordinator John Chavis could be the reason why.
Chavis’ unit led the SEC in total defense, and was fourth nationally against the pass. Yet LSU finished the season only 8-5. So if John Chavis can get a new gig where his side will be complemented by a better offense, he’s got to be interested right? Most importantly, Texas A&M is supposedly offering him more money.
LSU Head Coach Les Miles was asked about the future of John Chavis with the program:
“I’m going to keep that business internal, I can tell you that john Chavis was very productive for us, he’s had a great career for LSU, and that’s all I’m going to say.”
Interesting that Miles was referring to Chavis career in Baton Rouge in the past tense. He was pressed a few times after game by LSU Tigers media about the situation, but could not confirm that Chavis would return. He refused to be definitive.
In fact, Miles was rather defensive when asked how it looks for the program if/when the defensive coordinator leaves LSU for Texas A&M.
“Well, I don’t know how it looks to be honest with you, nor do I give a damn!”
As for John Chavis himself he would only discuss today’s game with the media. He would not comment on his future.
Today’s loss by LSU was the first loss by any SEC West team to anyone outside the SEC. How could a defense this talented give up 449 yards of total offense to Notre Dame? Miles vehemently dismissed the notion that his defense was distracted by the John Chavis rumors, but of course he’s going to say that.
Miles said Chavis went all out in his preparations for the Music City Bowl, but again that’s what he has to say.
Paul M. Banks owns, operates and writes The Sports Bank.net ,which is partners with Fox Sports. Read his feature stories in the Chicago Tribune RedEye edition. Listen to him on KOZN 1620 The Zone. Follow him on Twitter (@paulmbanks). His work has been featured in hundreds of media outlets including The Washington Post and ESPN 2