There was plenty of blame to go around at LSU for the Tigers’ dismal performance against Florida State. The Seminoles rocked the Fighting Tigers and defeated them 45-24 in their Week 1 opener in Orlando Sunday night. While some opted to direct their blame to head coach Brian Kelly, defensive coordinator Matt House received a lion’s share of criticism as well.
FSU tore apart LSU’s defense. They couldn’t corral transfer wide receiver Keon Coleman, who exploded for three touchdowns in his Seminole debut. The former Michigan State transfer looked like a stud and a first-round talent, and LSU had no answer for him or his hat trick. Quarterback Jordan Travis might have been skittish at first, but he rounded things out and scored five total touchdowns – 4 passing, and 1 rushing against LSU Sunday night in Orlando at Camping World Stadium.
Jordan Travis had himself a day vs. No. 5️⃣ LSU 🔥 pic.twitter.com/L0bc0yUbFq
— ESPN (@espn) September 4, 2023
One critical reason that House received criticism was his usage of star defender Harold Perkins. Last year, Perkins burst onto the scene on the edge and his pursuit of quarterbacks made him one of the SEC’s most-feared pass-rushers. But Perkins was put around the field for LSU and not just on the edge. Fans didn’t agree with that decision to say the least.
https://twitter.com/Zulu_WaRr/status/1698524016829493751
If the defensive game plan was to play Perkins at Nickel then the LSU DC needs to be transitioning from coach to studio analyst
— The Anonymous Nobody (@el_budget) September 4, 2023
Questioning LSU Defensive Coordinator on what in the type of game plan you put in place for Perkins? Wasting that man talent!
— Razin Ulmer (@razinbran) September 4, 2023
Yea lsu’s defensive coordinator gonna be having nightmares all day @kyronsamuels
— Chris Williamson (@CWilliamson44) September 4, 2023
The criticisms were ramped up as it was clear he was getting outcoached.
Alex Atkins is calling rings around Matt House
— Billy Gomila (@BillyGomila) September 4, 2023
Several fans were furious and called for House’s job after just one game. Safe to say, in the SEC, you’re really only as good as your last game.
[ESPN]
