Jordan Jefferson, Jarrett Lee could both see action in title game
Reporting from New Orleans -- Louisiana State has overcome a series of off-field obstacles to reach the Bowl Championship Series title game, including a midseason switch at quarterback.
Jarrett Lee started the season after Jordan Jefferson was suspended for his role in a bar fight.
Lee started the first nine games before Jefferson earned back his starting spot.
“Both quarterbacks have been tremendous contributors,” LSU Coach Les Miles said. “Both quarterbacks are great teammates… I think both players interact extremely well. I think both players understand their roles.”
Jefferson will make his fifth straight start Monday, but Miles said both quarterbacks could play.
“I would not be surprised to see Jarrett Lee in this game early on make significant plays and Jordan Jefferson step back in and do the things that he’s capable of doing.”
You again?
Jefferson said Friday he doesn’t mind playing Alabama in a rematch. LSU defeated Alabama, 9-6 in overtime, on Nov. 5 in Tuscaloosa.
“Just playing it once again as the championship game will make the game a lot sweeter when we’re victorious,” Jefferson said.
And you again
Nick Saban is making his third national championship game appearance after coaching LSU to the title in 2003 and Alabama to the 2009 crown.
“I think that regardless of how many times you’ve been in a game like this, there’s still going to be some anxiety,” Saban said Friday.
Saban said Monday’s game might be similar to November’s first meeting.
“A lot of good hits,” Saban said. “A lot of good tackling, a lot of aggressive play on both sides of the ball. We kind of expect the same kind of game this time around.”
No fun zone
Saban doesn’t enjoy bowl games the same way everyone else does.
“In my own way, as the coach, I enjoy this,” he said. “Putting the team together, putting the plan together, to have an opportunity to play against a great team and see if you can be successful, that’s my enjoyment.”
Just super
LSU has a 13-4 record in the Superdome and has won nine straight in the stadium since 1986. The Tigers are 24-6 in domed stadiums, including 9-1 at the Georgia Dome. LSU is also 4-0 in BCS games, all played at the Superdome.
Never forget
Alabama receiver Brandon Gibson said the tornado that devastated Tuscaloosa last April 27 continues to serve as the backdrop of this season.
“I drive by it every day,” Gibson said. “There is so much destruction. I still have a sick feeling in my stomach every time I go by.”
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