With LSU’s biggest challenge of the season looming ahead on Saturday, several players expressed a different attitude of how they view No. 1 Alabama.
“I think we have to look beyond all that and just say they’re another opponent,” LSU junior fullback JD Moore said. “Our mindset is that no matter who we line up against, we’re going to give them our best game and that’s the way it’s got to be.”
Moore’s comments are shared by many on the LSU football team who want to forget last season’s 30-16 loss in Tuscaloosa.
Interim head coach Ed Orgeron said junior running back Leonard Fournette is ready for another chance after rushing for an agonizing 31 yards in last year’s defeat.
“We’re going to do some things with Leonard that he’s able to do,” Orgeron said. “I think that whatever happened last year is in the past. We have a great game plan for Leonard.”
The key to preparation for many LSU players has been their mental approach.
Sophomore defensive back Donte Jackson said the team has focused on confidence.
“We’re not scared, you know, just confident,” Jackson said. “We try not to mix emotions in with the game. At the end of the day, we prepare for it like any other game.”
The Tigers have experienced new life since Orgeron took over, outscoring their opponents 125-38 and breaking numerous school records.
Junior quarterback Danny Etling said his teammates are showing nothing but positive vibes.
“We’re very fired up,” Etling said. “Everyone is kind of rallying around each other and we’ve had a little momentum going into this game. Hopefully, we can keep it up and continue to play at a high level of football.”
Though LSU has not beaten Alabama since 2011, this year’s matchup still has all the hype of being one of the greatest rivalries of all time. 
The Tigers are also healthy again.
“Besides the players that are out for the season, we should be at full speed come Saturday night,” Orgeron said.