There are only a couple of days until kickoff, and the only chatter
around the Tiger football facility is about No. 3 Alabama.
While the southern classic “Sweet Home Alabama” has been
heard blaring from the practice loudspeakers during preparation for the Tide in
years past, Wednesday evening’s session finished up without background music, instead
settling for the sounds of helmets and pads colliding.
“It was just guys practicing hard,” Miles said.
Still, don’t think for a moment that the CD was lost.
“It is still in there somewhere,” he said with a smile.
When asked if the CD had been dug out and played during
practice yet, Miles’ answer came without hesitation.
“Absolutely.”
No matter how you look at this one, whether as a top-10
showdown that should decide the Western Division winner or an
our-coach-over-your-coach affair, Saturday’s SEC showdown in Tuscaloosa holds
plenty of implications for both sides.
Despite an unblemished record, the story lately for the Tide
has been the success from kicker Leigh Tiffin on special teams.
Alabama has scored just two offensive touchdowns in their
last three wins, opting instead to live off the leg of Tiffin. On the season,
Tiffin is 20-of-23, with 11 field goals totaled in the Tide’s last three wins.
For LSU, Josh Jasper has converted 10-of-13 attempts, with a
long of 52 yards.
“I like our opportunity to put up three as well,” Miles
said. “Josh has always been long.
“I think the key is the opportunity to get seven, and that
is what we are playing for,” he added. “Once you are in the red zone, then you
have to at least secure yourself three.”
Alabama snapped a five-game losing streak to LSU with a
27-21 overtime win in Death Valley in 2008. Despite a recent loss, Miles said
that he understands why his team has put up consistently strong showings
against the Tide.
“Our guys enjoy playing well against a quality opponent,” he
said. “We play big in big games. I think your best opponents bring out the best
in you.”