Why doesn't Miles get credit as a great coach with the national media?

I like Miles and had witheld judgement after his first year; however, can't understand how even those who don't support him could have a lot of reason to go against him with all he's accomplished. He had our team one play away from the SECCG and a NC game this year.

I think his "Lack of Appeal" as far as the "Credit" thing could be that his personality, overall demeanor, is different in that he doesn't have that "Stopps, Spurrier, Saban Aura" about him........but neither does Pete Carol. I've often said that when I see Miles, I see a man like I'd hope my daughters to marry. I believe that, in time, even the "Hold out" LSU fans will gravitate to him.

I've thought about that a lot and can't figure out any other reason cause let's look at a comparison between him and Saban:

Saban's first year we were 8-4 and won the Peach Bowl and I was thrilled with that after 8 losing seasons in the previous 11 years.
Miles' first year he went 11-2 with a win in the Peach bowl too. (Not just a win, an offensive and defensive clinic).

Saban's second year our team went 10-3 with a win in the Sugar Bowl.
Miles has us at 10-2 with a trip to go to the Sugar Bowl also- should finish 11-2.

In Saban's third year, LSU finished 8-5 losing in the Cotton Bowl. LSU again Our losses were to #16 Virginia Tech (9/1/02), unranked Auburn (10/26/02), #10 Alabama (11/16/02), unranked Arkansas
We are already expecting Miles to be undefeated in his third year. Two losses (Let alone 5) and I'd have to stay locked up in my house rather than bear the fan outcry

As far as recruiting, Miles is undoubtably reaping benefits of a program put back on track, but is keeping the wheels greased and there's a lot to be said about that too.

Just my take.

 

Or one with any type of relevant point.:grin:

 

I think what is holding Miles back is the fact that LSU has looked somewhat tight in its big games. LSU played not to lose, rather than to win in its two losses. Im not saying I dont believe in him. I hold my opnion open until next year. Im not convinced either way. I think he is a good coach, you dont win that many games unless you are. If its all about talent then FSU would be a top 10 team as would Miami. Now then, as I mentioned, I cant call Miles elite just yet. I really dont think the coaching was good for the Auburn or Florida games. LSU gets too conservative against good teams, yet against low or level teams they come out guns blazing on offense. Next year will be the chance for Miles to prove himself. He will have a ton of talent, plus the home field advantage. Will LSU be able to do like OSU did this year?

 

I'm not the sharpest knife in the drawer but I do wear many hats!!

 

I'm not pointing this to you but so many fans like to say that but if I'd ask them to give 2 specific reasons they feel that way they'd say "Too conservative" which usually means I heard someone else say it.

Did you see the fake punt in Neyland with the game on the line?? Wheww, he caught me with that one.

But Saban lost to UAB, in Death Valley. Saban lost to Tenn. amidst one of the biggest castrophes in our Country's history and people still throw that in.

If that's an advantage (Which it definitely is) why isn't he given credit with that being factored in for the losses this year?

 

Ive thought LSU conservative for quite a while. I loved the fake punt against TN. Or last year against Arizona ST, LSU was a little more aggressive against TN and Ark. Games which they won. Im not holding the losses against Miles this year, I know its hell to win on the road in the SEC. Im just saying, that they were ultra conservative in the two losses. Like I said, Im waiting until next year to better judge Miles. I think he is a very good coach. I just hold out on if I think he is championship material. As I said before, I commend the job Miles did last year. I dont think anyone could have done a better job, considering all LSU and this state went through last year.

 

That one was great too and actually wasn't called- if I'm not mistaken- but good coaching told them to check off since no one was lined up against our player.

 

But that's the thing, Miles's biggest agressive move is the fake punt. The play calling for the rest of the game seems a little conservative (to me). I'm neutral on LM for now - next year will be the year. Yes, the last 2 years were not bad at all...
And about the Tenn game last year - one of the biggest thing going against us ALSO is that the players ran out of gas by the second half cuz they were so pumped up for the game (hell, i was pumped up too and i'm sitting on a couch :lol: ), so much meaning in that game, playing for everyone in LA....can't blame the players - and I think LM should get a pass on that one also...
But back to the main question - I agreed that winning a few SEC championships or a :crystal: will vault LM to the "elite" of coaches.

 

Also, while LM is down in N.O., how about he ask to see Payton's playbook...that would freakin' rock - 5 wideouts???:thumb: