by Milton Manningham/ LSU Football Contributor
The anticipation for the upcoming college football season reached a fever pitch with the release of the USA Today coaches preseason poll. LSU fans have reason to celebrate as Coach Brian Kelly‘s Tigers earned a highly respectable No. 5 ranking, setting the stage for an exciting and promising 2023 season. The Tigers’ impressive performance in the Southeastern Conference (SEC) last year, coupled with their talented roster, has solidified their position as one of the top contenders in the nation.
After an eventful 2022 season that saw LSU finish with a commendable 10-4 record, Brian Kelly’s influence on the team has been evident. Under his leadership, the Tigers claimed the prestigious SEC Western Division title, showcasing their potential to compete at the highest level. With Kelly at the helm for his second year, fans and pundits alike are eager to witness the continued growth and development of this formidable LSU squad.
LSU’s high ranking in the preseason poll places them in an elite group of teams vying for college football glory. Notably, the SEC boasts significant representation in the top five, with defending national champions Georgia leading the pack at No. 1. The presence of three SEC teams in the top five reflects the conference’s dominance and reinforces the intense competition that awaits LSU in their quest for success.
As the Tigers embark on their 2023 campaign, they face a challenging opener against the No. 8-ranked Florida State Seminoles. The matchup is scheduled for September 3rd in Orlando, promising a thrilling clash between two powerhouse programs. The early-season encounter will undoubtedly test LSU’s mettle, and a victory would further solidify their standing among the nation’s top teams.
While LSU is the flagbearer of Louisiana’s college football dominance, it’s worth mentioning that another team from the Pelican State, Tulane, has earned a place in the preseason poll at No. 23. The Green Wave’s inclusion reflects the state’s rich football tradition and adds another layer of excitement to the Louisiana football landscape.
In the end, LSU’s No. 5 ranking in the USA Today coaches preseason poll serves as a testament to the team’s potential and the direction set by Coach Brian Kelly. Their impressive performance last season and notable victories in the SEC have earned them a well-deserved spot among the nation’s top contenders. With a challenging opener against Florida State on the horizon, the Tigers have an opportunity to make a statement early in the season.