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Talking with LSU superfan before Arkansas’ matchup in Baton Rouge tonight
What better time than Arkansas’ trip to LSU to perform my annual visit to a man who lives in the heart of Louisiana and obtain his take on the college football season to this point?
Superfans. Every sports team on every level has them.
I have experienced opportunities to visit with several of the most faithful from countless high school, college, and professional teams throughout the years. None stood out quite like Matt Breland.
Mr. Breland may not physically bleed LSU purple and gold; however, I can say without a doubt if he could find a way dye the color of his hemoglobin to match his favorite team he would do it sans hesitation.
Therefore, what better time than Arkansas’ trip to LSU to perform my annual visit to a man who lives in the heart of Louisiana and obtain his take on the college football season to this point?
Quick preface: if you knew Matt personally, I can assure you might hate LSU just a little bit less … possibly.
Peter: Matt, thank you for having me. Before we begin, I see you have a Mike the Tiger headgear in your office. Is this the same one Lee Corso used on College Gameday?
Matt: I ripped it directly off his head and ran with it.
Peter: Should I fear a raid? Two weeks ago, LSU knocked off Alabama in Tuscaloosa by a close 46–41, thanks primarily to a big early lead. Were you astonished how well LSU played Alabama, especially in the first half?
Matt: Yes, I was surprised that LSU beat Alabama, even more so by the performances of both teams in the first half. Evan then I knew it would still be a close game. The LSU offense dominated the entire game except for the third quarter, but our defense did not play well, particularly in the second half.
Peter: A lot of people forget a young Ed Orgeron planted his roots in coaching as an assistant strength coach at Arkansas. Since that time, he has completed stints at a small number of schools including Miami, Syracuse, USC, and Ole Miss (as head coach). He even spent a year coaching an NFL defensive line in New Orleans. After Les Miles was fired in late September 2016, LSU named Orgeron was named prior to him being given the full title and privilege prior to the bowl game. Did Tigers fans have expectations of him leading your team to contending for a national championship at that time?
Matt: Probably not many. In fact, early in this season, I am certain only a small number thought Ed Orgeron would be leading LSU to accomplish what they have thus far. However, after LSU beat Texas, Florida, Auburn, and (particularly) Alabama, most fans now feel the Tigers will be contenders in the playoffs.
Peter: Is LSU the team to beat?
Matt: Of course, but there are other teams which are very capable of winning it all.
Peter: The spread for Saturday’s game has been fluctuating in the mid-40’s. It’s well-known this is a historic number for an SEC spread. If you were a gambling man, and I was giving you Arkansas +44 points, how much would you wager?
Matt: I would wager about $100 as I think the final score will be LSU 38, Arkansas 10. It all depends on how LSU’s defense plays.
Peter: So not only are you a high roller, you’re a big follower of the SEC. What are your thoughts on Arkansas firing Chad Morris with two games left in the season of his second year?
Matt: I believe they made the right decision to fire Coach Morris. For the quickest turnaround (and any chance of ever beating us), Arkansas would need to hire a big-time coach like Nick Saban, but we know that will not happen. Mike Leach would be good candidate for the job.
Peter: Arkansas has an interim coach for Saturday’s game in Death Valley. How much motivation would it take for him to have the Razorbacks keep this game competitive? Remember Orgeron’s “flip the script” approach?
Matt: I have to think Arkansas will not have much motivation since it is late in the season, but they could use this to their advantage.
Peter: Great answer. Who carries the Golden Boot back to their campus this Saturday? Why and by how much?
Matt: Joe Burrow (who is my favorite candidate for the Heisman trophy) will carry the Golden Boot back to LSU’s campus. The Tigers will win by 30-points.
Peter: There’s a hint of the Tiger arrogance for which people admire you. Bonus Question, Matt: Any fear Arkansas can knock LSU out of the #1 spot a second time?
Matt: No fear. LSU has the best quarterback and will score a lot of points in the first half. I say there is zero chance Arkansas can knock out #1 LSU.
Peter: Thanks for the confidence boost. Why are we friends again?
Matt: Because you owe me money.
Peter: Well, this is definitely all the time I have for today. Thank you for your great conversation, Mr. Breland. I always enjoy them. God Bless, best wishes, and may you have SOME luck on Saturday. Good day.
Matt: Thank you. You as well. Geaux Ti–
Peter: I said “good day.”
Be sure to listen to the game at 6 p.m. via HitThatLine.com, and on the air at ESPN Arkansas 95.3 in the River Valley, 96.3 in Hot Springs and 104.3 in Harrison-Mountain Home.
Find me on ‘Twitter’: @PeterMorganWPS
Oh, Matt, before you leave…. Go HOGS!!!
