LSU players, college football world react to firing of Les Miles
When the news broke that LSU had fired head coach Les Miles and offensive coordinator Cam Cameron in the middle of the worst start to a season since Miles took over in 2005, the college football world was quick to voice its various opinions.
LSU quarterback Brandon Harris was among the first LSU players to be asked of the move, to which he simply responded, "No comment." Tigers running back and Heisman Trophy candidate Leonard Fournette also spoke with the media following a conversation with Miles and stated that the team feels guilty about Miles losing his job, according to Andrew Lopez of The Times-Picayune.
As far as a message goes for LSU fans moving forward, Fournette downplayed the notion of any dramatic claims or statements, claiming that the team will take the change game by game and look to maintain focus moving forward.
Other players have also made statements via Twitter thanking Miles for his impact on their careers and thanking him for his leadership.
Here's to the man that gave me a chance. This man was more than a coach to me, and I am honored to have been able to call him my coach. pic.twitter.com/xgAYBOVThu
— Colby Delahoussaye (@ColbyDely) September 25, 2016
We appreciate all u done for us Thank You @LSUCoachMiles 🐐
— Cameron Lewis (@_31Savage) September 25, 2016
I will remember @LSUCoachMiles final speech as my head coach for the rest of my life. Thank you for an opportunity coach. You will be missed
— Zach Von Rosenberg (@ZVR09) September 25, 2016
To the man who gave me a shot; he saw the talent in an old Marine and let'em live a dream. @LSUCoachMiles, Much love and respect my friend pic.twitter.com/YuzbuNq8RW
— Luke Boyd (@LBoyd_LSU) September 25, 2016
Analysts from across the country, as well as LSU fans also voiced varying opinions, ranging from firm disagreement to a more relaxed acceptance. There has already been speculation as to the fate of LSU's recruiting classes established under Miles, with one SEC assistant going as far as to say it will be "open season" for other teams.
Thoughts from SEC assistant after Les Miles' firing. "It'll be open season with #LSU's recruits," the coach said. "Their class was so good."
— Jeremy Crabtree (@jeremycrabtree) September 25, 2016
Les Miles didn't deserve to be fired. Yet. Had Wis beaten until BHarris INT. Got home-cooked on quick clock at Aub. But was on borrowed time
— Skip Bayless (@RealSkipBayless) September 25, 2016
All LSU did was put off what was essentially inevitable for the last 10 months.
— Ralph D. Russo (@ralphDrussoAP) September 25, 2016
The inevitable after another underwhelming start to the season for #LSU. Les Miles fired
— Adnan Virk, ESPN (@adnanESPN) September 25, 2016
Word is #LSU made the move now bc there was a feeling Les Miles might temporarily save his job again & program would keep going in circles.
— Bruce Feldman (@BruceFeldmanCFB) September 25, 2016
LSU is officially ridiculous. Congratulations on getting rid of an amazing coach and an amazing recruiter. Have fun with your downgrade.
— Andrew Bucholtz (@AndrewBucholtz) September 25, 2016