re: If we don't make the playoffs next year would it be "underperforming"?

No. Only 4 teams make the playoffs, and one of them--the best college football team/program in America--plays in our division. Plus, without significant improvement at the QB position, we're looking at another 3-or-4 loss season. 9-3/5-3 would be a pretty decent 2015 for LSU, given our QB situation--not underperforming based on the talent on the field.