I noticed that we (LSU) have open dates before both the Bama and A&M games. Initially, I thought it would be an advantage but noticed that Bama and A&M are also off the week before playing us. Is this pure coincidence or do reps from each school have influence in when the open dates occur? After a stretch of tough SEC games, our schedule sets up as: 10/26 Furman 11/2 Bye 11/9 @ Bama 11/16 Bye 11/23 A&M Just kind of odd to see two off weeks in a three week stretch.
IIRC, the 2013 schedule was going to be a bit of an oddball before the SEC transitions into new schedules from 2014 on.
I don't recall ever having 2 byes in a single year, much less in alternate weeks. But, given that they appear between arguably our 2 toughest games, they couldn't be at a better time.
Ask the Alabama grad who controls the SEC scheduling and I'll guarantee you he'll say everything is "pure coincidence". Pure coincidence is what got Alabama two games against 1-15 (combined SEC records) teams from the east. By coincidence it's just as easy this season.
A few years back Saban complained that several SEC teams had an open week before playing Bama. I don't remember the exact number but want to say it was pretty substantial. EDIT: Found this: Of course Bama's open date was the week before us. If you want to see Bama's record vs. teams coming off open dates you can read more below. It is significant. http://www.al.com/sports/index.ssf/2010/10/sec_football_by_the_numbers_al_1.html
