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

I have family and friends in Michigan, Ohio, New York, Oklahoma, Cali and Oregon, among other places.

Regarding LSU-
academically acceptable, nothing more or less. A degree from LSU wouldn't guarantee a job, also wouldn't disqualify either.

Athletically (and keep in mind these are older people)- LSU is generally considered a likable team in most sports; recognizable and considered good, but not elite to the point that you would hate them.

Culturally, most out-of-staters perceive Louisiana as a big New Orleans with swamps around it, where everybody parties and does the Mardi Gras thing year round, and LSU, like the Saints, gets the spillover sentiment. They think we spend weekends at Tiger Stadium during the season, and partying in NOLA or fishing in the bayous in the offseason. Which, generally, is considered in a positive manner, not as an insult.