LSU head coach Brian Kelly took full responsibility for the Tigers’ 42-13 defeat against Alabama, a loss that has likely ended LSU’s chances for a College Football Playoff berth. The Tigers, now 6-3 overall and 3-2 in SEC play, face a steep climb for any shot at a conference title.
Reflecting on the loss, Kelly stated, “We’re disappointed in the way we performed. We didn’t live up to LSU’s football standards, and that affects us more than missing the playoffs.” LSU had a bye week to prepare but struggled to contain Alabama’s Jalen Milroe, who rushed for 185 yards and four touchdowns, capitalizing on LSU’s defensive lapses.
The Tigers’ issues extended to the offense, where quarterback Garrett Nussmeier’s three turnovers, including a critical interception in the end zone, hindered LSU’s scoring opportunities. Additionally, penalties like a face mask call in the third quarter were costly, frustrating LSU fans in the stands.
Kelly emphasized the need to “put players in the right position” but didn’t delve into specifics on defensive adjustments. “There’s no waiver wire,” he remarked, adding that LSU would have to “figure out what works best for the guys we have.”
Despite the disappointment, Kelly and the team pledged to regroup for their upcoming game against Florida. “We didn’t play to LSU’s standard,” Kelly admitted. “I’ve got to make sure we’re ready to succeed, and that’s on me to get right.”
