Bama Tops Tigers: So Close but So Far Away

What must be a morning of not only bruised bodies are bruised hearts of the LSU Tigers after losing to Alabama yesterday...players, coaches, and fans.

While LSU held serve for much of the game, the fourth quarter was where the needle became too heavy, and their backs were broken. Bama proved to be the SEC West Champions.

Although there were four questionable calls that could have led to a different outcome of the game, the Tide showed why they could be a good representative for the SEC in Pasadena.

I will be rooting for them to beat Florida and bring back the crystal football to the SEC West wing.

However, as Tiger fans, it’s still a tough loss.

To come so close, and to have it all slip away so quickly at the end.

But don’t forget...these experiences are needed to build a championship team. The old saying that "what doesn’t kill you, makes you stronger," is so true in college football.

We’ll find out if Coach Miles can inspire his team to accept that challenge. To instill in these young men that defeat is not death...pain is not forever, and what matters most is perseverance.

That’s fine and dandy for the team, but what’s important for Tiger Nation is to tip our hat to Alabama, suck it up, and finish strong for the year.

A possible 10-win season is not what we wanted, but don’t forget where we were last year. I’d say we’re getting it right, and that we already knew that the Tigers were another year away from making a really good case to represent the SEC in a BCS Championship game.

Even if we beat Bama, there was no guarantee that we would have finished unbeaten. Ole Miss and Arkansas are no gimmes.

There is a lot left to play for, and I would hope that we as fans, would honor our team in a way that shows class, respect, and thankfulness.

It doesn’t make the loss easier to swallow...but it brings into captivity the thought that life is not always pretty, and it beats you up from time to time. Think of how these young men must feel after preparing so hard for something and failing. That’s life in many ways. You don’t always win, but at least you gave it your best.

These Tigers gave their best, but it wasn’t good enough this year against Alabama.

Let’s get behind our team and show the love and recognition they deserve.

Let’s finish strong.

Let’s remind the world that LSU Nation is a nation that does not fold our tents when the tough gets going.

Let’s fight to the bitter end...and hang our hats on the character that makes Louisiana a ‘damn strong’ state.

Forever LSU...Geaux Tigers!