LSU's Season Begins Today: The Return of The "Mad Hatter"?

Within hours, The Fighting Tigers of Louisiana State University will begin their 2010 football schedule.  This team, like many teams, will begin to answer the questions that have been raised throughout the offseason, but no question is greater than that of their head coach, Les Miles.

Les Miles' tenure in Baton Rouge began with questions.  Not only was he replacing local legend (now arch-nemesis), Nick Saban, he also the faced the aftermath of one of the most devastating storms in United State history. 

The man and his team responded, compiling 34-6 record, one SEC championship, and the 2007 National Championship. 

During the 2007 season, Miles earned the moniker "The Mad Hatter" for his fearlessness and brashness.  Last second touchdown throws and endless fourth down runs were the norm in Baton Rouge during that championship year.  In fact, everything seemed to turn in his favor, as his team became the first 2 loss National Champion.

Since that magical year, things have not favored Miles well as the Tigers have struggled to a 17-9 record, including the first bowl loss under Miles term, last year in the Capitol One Bowl against Penn State.

Miles has faced increased criticism, and speculation that he won only with Nick Saban's former players.  Tension reached disastrous levels after a clock management blunder against Ole Miss and an apparent lie coupled with public criticism of his young quarterback Jordan Jefferson.

There is increased speculation that this could be Miles last stand in Baton Rouge if the Tigers do not show improvement from the previous two seasons. 

This is why the most important question to be answered in tonight's game against North Carolina, is not about the young players.  It is not about the maturation of Jordan Jefferson.  The most important question to be answered tonight will be about the head coach.  Will we see the return of the "Mad Hatter", or will we see the man who seemed lost at times during the past two seasons?  This question will begin to be answered in Atlanta tonight.