Everyone here knows the "insider troll" phenomenon is extremely common this time of year and especially so with LSU in the coaching search mix. Fans are desperate for any scrap of hope or news. Sites like TD, RebelGrove, GatorCountry, etc., are infested with them year after year.

The General Troll Formula

Most fake insiders follow a predictable playbook designed to maximize chaos, meltdowns, and page views while staying just believable enough to hook people:

Build credibility first
Post accurate/public info for weeks or months (e.g., "heard the team is practicing indoors today because of rain" — something anyone could guess or see on Instagram).

Or create an alt account that only posts vague, safe "intel" that turns out correct because it's already leaking everywhere.

Drop the "bombshell" with hyper-specific but unprovable details.

Use exact dollar figures, timelines, family names, flight tail numbers, school visits, agent meetings, etc.

Phrase it as "heard from a source close to..." or "my buddy who works in the AD..."

Add emotional hooks: "It's basically done," "Papers are signed," "Family is already house-hunting," "He hates [current school] politics."

Escalate urgency and exclusivity.

"Will update when I know more" (keeps the thread alive).

"Can't say too much or I'll get someone in trouble."

Post updates in real time: "Just got a text — deal is at $13.5M with full staff retention."

Disappear or backpedal when wrong.

If called out: "Source got bad info," "Things changed last minute," or just delete/go silent.

Bonus points if they pretend to be heartbroken: "Man, I really thought this was it..."

The goal is usually just chaos and laughs — rival fans trolling your board, bored regulars stirring the pot, or people farming clout. Very rarely is it an actual leaker.

This post was edited on 11/18/25 at 12:38 pm