Ed Orgeron reveals how he prepared LSU players to face Alabama

Ed Orgeron knew he had to change some things in order for LSU to beat Alabama. The Tigers did just that in 2019 in an instant classic en route to an undefeated season.

The history books will read LSU, 15-0 and national champions. One of the greatest teams of the 21st century right? But, Orgeron and crew had to make some adjustments and game plan properly to beat Nick Saban and Alabama and get over the hump.

As Orgeron detailed on Pardon My Take, co-offensive coordinator Joe Brady was key, especially that week. The rest was history in a 46-41 win in Tuscaloosa.

“First of all, as a head coach, I knew the benchmark was that I have to beat Alabama,” Orgeron said. “So everything that we did every day, I didn’t say we had to beat Alabama, but I knew that they said they set the benchmark high, and we were right there. We had to get past them. First of all, I thought you had to match their physicality. I was wrong. We spread them out. 

“And that day we went to Tuscaloosa, we really ripped them a good one right?. They came back. Give it to Nick Saban … great coach. But we really had a great game plan. I remember, you know, I’d go home Thursday night and Joe Brady would stay in the office till four in the morning. And the next day, on Friday, he just looked at me, saying, coach, we got them. And I remember getting on the plane. It was like I was going with my buddies (like) we’re going to a fight, man. We were going to win and it was no question we were gonna win that game.”

While it ended up being a close game with insane moments and plays, LSU actually led 33-13 at halftime and hung on for the win, despite 21 fourth quarter points from Alabama. At the time, Orgeron and the Tigers were 8-0 and ranked No. 2 while Alabama was also 8-0 and ranked No. 3.

Brady was a key part of the staff and he parlayed it into an NFL coaching career down the line. He’s currently the Buffalo Bills’ offensive coordinator.

“Recognizing talent. I mean, that’s been part of my strengths as a recruiter,” Orgeron said. “When Joe came and he spoke to our staff in the summer, I knew this guy was gonna be a great coach. I mean, Ray Charles could see that shit.”