re: What does the nation outside of Louisiana say about LSU?

I live in VA.

In football and baseball the school is highly respected as a national powerhouse. I have a lot of conversations with ACC and Big 10 fans who acknowledge LSU's greatness in these areas. I travel for business from SC to MD all the time. I will occasionally have my LSU shirt or hat on and get into a conversation about whatever sport is in season. On a side note a lot of people don't understand why LSU got rid of Miles. Most teams are happy with 8 to 10 wins and they say your not beating Alabama no matter the coach.

In basketball many believe the glory days have ended. Some fans even think Wade's decision to go to LSU was a step down. I don't necessarily agree with that as I think LSU long term can be something VCU could never be. But currently they are right until LSU strings together some tournament appearances. Just ask yourself our national view. Last year a player from LSU went #1 in the NBA draft and LSU did not make the tournament. Most people only see that as the story. They don't know how bad the coach was or that Simmons was just going through the mandatory waiting period to get to the NBA.