Les Miles talks bowl game in press conference
Les Miles met with the media for the final time before his team heads to Nashville for the Music City Bowl on Dec. 30, giving reporters an update on the goings-on around the program as they get ready for their holiday break.
Les on Christmas: “Families come to town, and meals are had.”
— Robert Stewart (@TigerRagRobert) December 23, 2014
The Tigers have their final practice before their break on Tuesday, which Miles told reporters would be a “light go.” The team would then break for the holidays, reconvening after two days.
#LSU RB Kenny Hilliard has returned to practice. — Ross Dellenger (@DellengerAdv) December 23, 2014
LSU will be getting senior running back Kenny Hilliard back in the lineup for the bowl game. Hilliard missed the final two games of the season after suffering a shoulder injury against Alabama. Miles told reporters that Hilliard went through a full practice and looked good doing so.
Les on rumors of A&M reaching out to DC John Chavis: “I have no real feeling there.”
— Tiger Rag (@Tiger_Rag) December 23, 2014
Miles didn’t offer much comment on reports that defensive coordinator John Chavis talked to Texas A&M about their defensive coordinator vacancy. He told reporters he planned to talk to all of his assistants about the opportunities they have at LSU and elsewhere. In true Miles fashion, he said that coaches have “a want to be (at LSU).” One of the reasons might be LSU’s nation-high assistant coach salary pool.
Les on Notre Dame’s offense: “I think their quarterbacks make plays. They’re athletic.”
— Robert Stewart (@TigerRagRobert) December 23, 2014
LSU is preparing to face both Notre Dame quarterbacks, Everett Golson and Malik Zaire. Notre Dame coach Brian Kelly recently said that he plans to give both quarterbacks playing time in the bowl game. Golson was the starter all season, but was benched for Zaire against Southern California in the team’s regular season finale.
Miles on assistants: “When you have people, you invest in them. I recognize we pay our staff very well.” #LSU — Ross Dellenger (@DellengerAdv) December 23, 2014 Miles: “it wouldn’t surprise me if both guys kicked again” in bowl, referring to FG kickers Delahoussaye, Domingue. — David Ching (@ESPNChing) December 23, 2014
LSU is back to an open competition at kicker after Colby Delahoussaye struggled late in the season. Trent Domingue is also getting reps practicing field goals. Miles said that Delahoussaye did not have an injury, which would imply that the kicker’s struggles are not a phsyical issue.
Les on NFL draft announcements: “I think there’s a real opportunity to have a quality press conference with the junior class.”
— Robert Stewart (@TigerRagRobert) December 23, 2014
Last year, LSU held a press conference to announce its juniors returning for a senior year. Miles thinks that a good number of draft eligible players will be coming back for a final season in Baton Rouge. Jalen Collins will reportedly jump to the pros, but other juniors like Danielle Hunter, Jalen Mills, Kwon Alexander and Vadal Alexander may be coming back.
Miles on Jennings criticism: “We’re searching for great quarterback play. He’s given us that in spurts.” #LSU — Ross Dellenger (@DellengerAdv) December 23, 2014
Miles has heard the criticism of quarterback Anthony Jennings. As per usual, Miles told reporters that both Jennings and Brandon Harris are improving in practice.