Alleva: No LSU players ineligible

In this December 2009 file photo, LSU Athletic Director Joe Alleva listens on speaker phone as officials of the Capital One Bowl extends an invitation to LSU to play in the 2010 Capital One Bowl.

LSU Athletic Director Joe Alleva released a statement Wednesday afternoon aimed at addressing rumors and media questions about the eligibility of quarterback Jarrett Lee for the rest of the Tigers’ games this season.

Alleva’s statement does not mention Lee in particular but is instead general in nature:

“Despite media and message board speculation, no LSU student-athletes have been declared ineligible for postseason competition,” Alleva says in the statement. “The current semester is not complete and finals are still ahead, so it is grossly unfair to our student-athletes and it is both premature and irresponsible to speculate on the final grades and postseason eligibility of our student-athletes.”

Speculation about Lee has centered on whether or not he would be ineligible for the Southeastern Conference Championship Game on Saturday against Georgia (3 p.m., CBS) and/or LSU’s bowl game.

LSU coach Les Miles was asked specifically about Lee’s academic status Monday during a news conference but skated around the issue. Miles later said he expects Lee to play a vital role in the Tigers’ final two games.

Asked again after Wednesday’s practice, Miles downplayed the academic issue.

“Ever since I’ve been here, guys are in differing positions academically as we go into the end of the season,” he said. “Very much like I was (as a player). You know what? Guys rebound, and they make it.

“Look back. How many guys have not been with us in a bowl game? Whoever reported it, in my opinion, didn’t do any real investigative work. What was said could have been said every year that I’ve been here.”

Asked if he has any greater academic concern about a key player or players, Miles said: “It’s pretty much normal.”

Lee started LSU’s first nine games but has seen markedly less playing time since the Nov. 5 Alabama game as Jordan Jefferson has gotten the last three starts. Lee has not spoken to the media since before the Alabama game.

Mathieu is Camp finalist

Chalk up a major national award coup for the Honey Badger.

LSU cornerback Tyrann Mathieu was named Wednesday as one of five finalists for the Walter Camp National Player of the Year Award, one of the biggest postseason awards in college football.

Mathieu is the only defensive finalist on the list. The others are Alabama running back Trent Richardson and three quarterbacks - Andrew Luck of Stanford, Case Keenum of Houston and Robert Griffiin III of Baylor.

Mathieu, who has been named the Walter Camp National Defensive Player of the Week twice this year, leads the No. 1-ranked Tigers in tackles with 66. He leads the SEC and ranks second in the nation in both forced fumbles (six) and fumble recoveries (four). Mathieu has also intercepted two passes, recorded seven pass breakups and a pair of quarterback hurries. He has 5.5 tackles for loss and 1.5 sacks.

Mathieu, the only sophomore on the list, started at free safety Friday against Arkansas for an injured Eric Reid, further demonstrating his standing as one of the most flexible players in college football.

Mathieu has scored three touchdowns in 2011, most recently returning a punt 92 yards for a touchdown against Arkansas. Mathieu scored on a 3-yard fumble return against Oregon in the season-opener and he followed that with a 23-yard fumble return for a score against Kentucky.

In 24 career games, Mathieu has forced 11 fumbles, which ranks second among all active players in college football, and is just three shy of tying the NCAA career mark.

The Walter Camp Award winner will be announced Dec. 8 during the 6 p.m. edition of “SportsCenter” on ESPN. The trophy will be formally presented Jan. 14 in New Haven, Conn.

Injury report

Miles said Reid - who missed the Arkansas game with a pulled quadriceps muscle from LSU’s previous game at Ole Miss - worked out the entire practice Wednesday but stopped short of saying he is 100 percent go against Georgia.

“He appeared to run pretty well,” Miles said. “I still think there’s some question, but he practiced.”

Miles drew some laughs Monday when asked about defensive tackle Michael Brockers’ knee swelling up after the Arkansas game.

No tweets necessary Wednesday - Miles said Brockers is “fine” and will play.

The same goes for tailback Alfred Blue, who pulled a hamstring at Ole Miss and also sat out the Arkansas game.

“He took every snap he could,” Miles said. “He’s ready to play special teams and at tailback.”

Miles did say freshman Terrence Magee, who also missed the Arkansas game, will likely miss the SEC Championship Game with an unspecified injury.

Advocate on the road

Advocate employees will be distributing free copies of the paper Saturday morning at a number of Atlanta area hotels.

• Hilton Atlanta Airport (LSU team hotel)

• Drury Inn & Suites Airport

• Downtown Atlanta:

• Hilton Atlanta

• Sheraton Atlanta Hotel

• Hyatt Regency Atlanta (SEC headquarters)

• Atlanta Marriott Marquis

• Westin Peachtree Plaza

• Ritz-Carlton

The last word

“There may be less LSU fans, but I think they’ll make more noise.”

- Miles on likely facing a pro-Georgia crowd Saturday in the Georgia Dome.

Comments

1) Comment by KB - 03/12/2011

We are all in agreement on wanting the Tigers to go all the way! GEAUX TIGERS and thanks for an exciting year!

2) Comment by LoboBR - 02/12/2011

@KB -- My bad. I didn't mean to overlook the fact you were there and on some other posts as well, for that I offer my THANKS for your support. To everyone else, there is always gonna be remarks of agreement and disagreement. Whether we feel certain players did right or wrong, the one thing that is pretty much equal is that we have all laid claim to is being Loyal, True, Blood-bleeding, Die-hard, Devoted, Supportive LSU TIGER FANS. This team has survived some of the worst headaches ever faced by any Tiger team. Let's cheer these guys on to VICTORY on Saturday. This season will soon be over. I will always support Lee for all the hurdles he has faced these last 4 years and how he has always held his head high through it all. He definitely deserves MVP for that. GEAUX TIGERS!

3) Comment by justagirl - 02/12/2011

I don't think anyone commenting on this article have booed either of the quarterbacks. I know that a large group, possibly even the majority, of LSU fans are ignorant and have taken part in bashing one quarterback or the other just as many have bashed Les Miles. The point being made on this board is simply that as a fan I do not like the way Lee has been treated, not only by the coaching staff, but also by the fans who have all of a sudden jumped back on the Jefferson bandwagon. These are most likely the same people calling him a thug when he was suspended, I realize that. And yes, I do realize Miles is not the only coach who makes decisions about the team. however, as the head coach, he is the one who people will naturally blame for everything that happens with the team. I did feel badly for Jefferson that he was suspended from the team and in the situation he was in with so much negativity. However, he did put himself in that barroom and he paid the consequences of breaking team rules and by putting hiself at that place, he is the only one who can be held responsible. If he hadn't been there, it wouldn't have happened. Yes, Lee came into the picture again because of Jefferson's mistake. But, he did well, he excelled, he won games for us and brought us to #1 and that was no easy task no matter what anyone tries to say. He played several teams ranked in the top 25 and we beat them all badly. I don't think he deserved to lose his starting job because of a few mistakes made in what has been hyped as the biggest game, no matter how he received the starting position in the first place. As a devoted fan to LSU, who has cheered them on no matter how good or bad they have done, I do not cheer for one player or the other, I cheer for the team. However, as a sports fan, I obviously have my favorite players and players I think are better. I believe anyone who follows any sport does, naturally. We all have opinions on who we think are best and I believe Lee is the better quarterback based simply on what I have seen for myself. Of course, I do acknowledge that obviously, the coaches must be seeing something I am not because there has to be a reason they play Jefferson over Lee. That doesn't change the fact that I still think Lee is better. It is not exclusive to the quarterback position. I have favorite running backs, defensive backs, etc. With all that being said I am happy of where the team is now, regardless of how we got there. This has been a great season and I am proud of the team for fighting all the way through till the end and always proving themselves week after week. Whoever plays, this is a great group of athletes and I think we can all agree on that. So, Geaux Tigers and I hope they finish strong!

4) Comment by Straight Shooter - 02/12/2011

As much glory as Lee and Jefferson have experienced as teammates for the only LSU team to finish 12-0 in a regular season, I'm pretty sure that they will be glad to be finished with the unfair criticisms over the past 4 years. Booing and disparaging comments about both of these college athletes are unjustified. In 2008, Lee was thrown into a situation where he was asked to win games (since then, both QBs have only needed to manage games) despite his inexperience. Fans booed Lee, and the LSU nation was excited about Jefferson's play at the end of the year. 2009 and 2010 were tough times for the starter Jefferson, but both he and Lee led LSU to a 20-6 record over the 2-year period. In the past offseason, our coaches made a decision that Jefferson deserved the starting position. If you want to call Jefferson a favorite of Miles, then you should say that Jefferson is also a favorite of Coach Stud and Coach Krag, who both have a more hands-on approach with the QBs. Regardless, Jefferson lost his starting job due to an unfortunate and still not clear incident. He didn't lose the job based upon his performance. Despite a country that still has the constitutional protection of innocent until proven guilty, Jefferson's name was plastered all over the media and fans who didn't like Jefferson's play rode the wave of shaming a student for an alleged off the field incident. Put yourself in his parents' shoes, who raised a child that has never exhibited any bad behavior. It's got to be difficult. Lee stepped in beautifully at a difficult time and he and his teammates led us to 8-0 record with Lee as a starter. Still, I remember the disgruntled fans unfairly criticizing Lee's performance in the Oregon game. People were stuck on the stat of a sub-100 yard passing game when we still beat a top-5 team. As the season progressed and the two QB system started to develop, a minority of the fans took sides and haven't let up in trying to stir up a controversy that is just not there. I, along with the majority of fans, truly love this team and its coaches. The players see a coach who has stuck up for the players, and handled everything in-house. He owes it to his players to not publicize why he makes the decisions he makes. Coach Miles does not owe fans any explanation for his in-house decisions. If there was unfairness and favoritism, this team would have exploded and led to poor play. But this has not happened, indicating the obvious: the fans' perspective is different than the team's perspective. Folks, this team seem to enjoy each other and play for each other. 12-0. If you are a true Tiger fan, you will enjoy what a truly season this has become. Hopefully we will get to ride out 2 more games pulling for any Tiger who suits up and gets on the field. For all the rough times these 2 QBs have experienced, I'm pretty sure that they would enjoy a united fanbase just cheering for the team, not individuals. As much of a negative impact fans can make, we can make it a positive experience for these student athletes these last 2 games. Geaux Tigers!

5) Comment by KB - 02/12/2011

I was there with you on the other posts LoboBR and it was very frustrating! Glad you clarified your point Bengal belle and I agree something is not right with the entire situation! Geaux Tigers!

6) Comment by Sandy - 02/12/2011

Doesn' t matter if Lee suits up or not. Unless it is a blowout, you will not see him again. Then he will only come in to hand off a few times, then kneel the ball and kill the clock. They got what they needed from him, and now ht\\they don't need him any more, so he is done. It is unfortunate. He has paid a higher price to be an LSU football player than anyone in recent memory. Seems like he deserves better.

7) Comment by tball - 01/12/2011

I agree with all comments, I just don't get the treatment Miles is giving to Lee. I hope they let Lee suit-up for the game..just kidding!!!

8) Comment by LoboBR - 01/12/2011

I am glad to see that I am not alone with wondering why Miles is so persistent in keeping Lee out. Yesterday, I had a time with 2 other readers on another story, sure wish y'all were there. Anyway, let's get ready for Georgia, hope that Lee is allowed substantial playing time, not just 2 minutes. GEAUX TIGERS! SEC CHAMPS!

9) Comment by Bengal belle - 01/12/2011

FYI, I am 200% Jarrett Lee. What I was trying to say, they are using him as a scapegoat. I meant they need to look into Miles actions, not Lee's! It is Miles shadiness that is the reason Jarrett is not starting. But Miles will get caught! Mark my words... J Lee can definitely handle the pressure, and should have started every game!

10) Comment by justagirl - 01/12/2011

Also, I have to add that in all honesty I would be more confident with Lee in the postseason. I don't feel Jefferson really proved himself against Alabama, who we will most likely be seeing again (since no touchdowns isn't really the way you want to win the championship), and while I believe we will win it all, I just think Lee should be seeing some more playing time. That being said, I agree that Miles has done a great job and definitely deserves coach of the year, hands down.

11) Comment by KB - 01/12/2011

Miles is a great coach, but I have to admit I have lost some respect for him over this QB situation. I do hope, however, that he does win the coach of the year because he has earned that much

12) Comment by justagirl - 01/12/2011

I agree KB. Lee threw only 2 interceptions this year against the #2 team in the country. Alabama is a very strong team and if Jefferson was a passing quarterback, I would be willing to bet he would have thrown some interceptions too. One interception was a low snap so you can't completely fault him for that one and the other one, yes, was a mistake. I've seen Jefferson make lots of them and never comes out. And, I might mention, Bama's QB threw the same amount of interceptions that game. I don't get it and I maybe I never will but I just have to believe that Miles he's doing, he's gotten us this far and he is a great coach. I hate the way Lee has been treated but I hope he does realize for all those putting down on him there are just as many, or more, who appreciate what he did for this team and think he is a stand-up guy and a good quarterback.

13) Comment by KB - 01/12/2011

I don't buy that Lee can't handle pressure...he sure handle a great deal of pressure at the beginning of this year! I believe he excels under pressure if given the chance to show it. I'm sick of people complaining about the two interceptions during the Alabama game...a strong defense. When JJ dropped the ball and caused a safety Miles didn't pull him out and put in Lee...he let JJ stay in the game and screw up a couple of more times! I just don't get it, but I hope you're right justagirl and Miles sees something we dont'!

14) Comment by justagirl - 01/12/2011

I agree, I think it is completely unfair the way Lee has been treated and unjustifiable. I don't believe that Lee couldn't have completed the season the way he started with the same outcome Jefferson has had. Lee faced several tough teams and excelled. I don't know Miles' thinking on this and I am a big fan of Miles. I just have to believe there is something he is seeing that we aren't, however, I think it's time for Jefferson to show us what makes him so great. I have been very disappointed and frustrated with Jefferson's performance in many games and do not see what Miles see in him. granted, he did still win games, I believe Lee could ahve done the same. I disagree with the opinion that Lee cannot handle high pressure situations. He has proved time and time again, each season, that he can indeed handle it and this year he has done very well. @Bengal belle, I think you are very wrong. Lee has always maintained his class throughout his career at LSU. He has hung in there and worked hard and always came back better and stronger. He has handled the situations very well in a way most athletes his age wouldn't be able to, they would have given just given up, gone to another school, quit trying. But he didn't, he hung in there, he practiced, he got better, and most importantly, he stayed. He was there for the team when we all needed him most and I hate to see how everyone just turned there back on him so quickly. It is really disappointing.

15) Comment by KB - 01/12/2011

@Bengal belle...Lee has too much class and respect to do anything like what I think you are insinuating about him. He's not into breaking curfew and going to bars, etc. Maybe he should think about getting into some kind of trouble, then maybe Miles would let him play! LOL

16) Comment by Bengal belle - 01/12/2011

Well said @ Bewdro! As Miles stated above, reporter did not do any real investigative work. I think he is challenging all reporters to do more investigative work as to real reason he HAS to play Jefferson. Probably has nothing to do with Lee and grades, poor guy is just getting emotionally and publicly destroyed. Miles has challenged you to figure this out!! I'm betting money truth will come out in next 10 days....cheerleader, inappropriate texting, working late excuse; something's there. Get to digging....

17) Comment by KB - 01/12/2011

I have been saying this same thing since Miles put Lee on the bench and replaced him with JJ as starting QB. I am very disappointed in the way Miles has handled this entire situation! I am very proud of Lee for the maturity he has displayed throughout this mistreatment. This young man has more class than JJ or Miles! Geaux Tigers and Geaux Lee!

18) Comment by LoboBR - 01/12/2011

@Bewdro -- Well said, your view is justified and agreeable. GEAUX TIGERS!

19) Comment by Bewdro - 01/12/2011

First off, let me qualify my comments by saying that I am not, nor ever have been, "a Miles hater". I have liked this coach since before he was barely LSU newsworthy. that being said, the only reason this article manifested itself is because it might help explain to some (including me) Miles' treatment of senior quarterback Jarrett Lee, because if not for some reason resembling this one, relegating Lee to the bench after leading LSU to eight consecutive victories, and embarrassing him in front of tens of thousands of avid LSU fans by sending him in for mop up duty long after he should have gone in is not justifiable. Miles has, on multiple occasions given his best, sidestepping answer to this question, but really, there is no justifiable reason for him to treat Jarrett as he has . . . and I am sure Miles is hoping this situation will go away, but if there are more fans out there like me, it won't! Every LSU fan knows Jarrett Lee's history . . . his pick six freshman interceptions and how he has returned every year, competed, gotten himself into the best shape he has ever been in at LSU, gained the admiration and respect of his fellow players and I wonder how hard it must be on them to see one of their own treated this way. Again, I like Miles, but his treatment of Jarrett Lee is flat out wrong, and putting Jarrett in the last two games with only two minutes remaining and the score long past being out of hand is incredibly hard to watch, and puts a scar in thinking about Miles that may never heal! Maybe this is something he wishes had not happened, or that will go away, but his actions will speak to many recruits and send a message that, "You may come to LSU and compete for starter for five straight years, take one for the Gipper in your freshman year, come back every year stronger and stronger, finally assume the starting position your senior year and orchestrate (brilliantly) eight straight wins, but I will bench you for throwing two interceptions against the best defense in the country, and I will trash everything you have done to date! Overstated perhaps, but unfortunately, not far off the mark. I don't blame Miles for making the quarterbacks unavailable to the press, because they couldn't explain his actions any better than he can!