LSU pre-game is a ritual and it is timed to the second.

I have been on the field for many pre-game festivities at LSU and I can tell you that those who coordinate things do so to the second and not a lot has changed throughout the years.

Last April, Governor Jeff Landry recommended that all athletes be on the field or court when the National Anthem is played before spring events and the question brought up was if LSU Football would stand on the sideline as the anthem is performed in Tiger Stadium.

This came after the LSU Women's Basketball team was absent from the court during the National Anthem for the NCAA Tournament.

We have an answer in regards to LSU Football, and the answer is no, LSU players and coaches will not be present on the field when the National Anthem is performed in 2024

Now, before you ask why or threaten to boycott the university, LSU Football has not been on the field for the National Anthem in years. And let me note, that many of the teams who visit Death Valley on Saturdays are not present on the field with the anthem is performed.

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LSU's pre-game routine is to return to the locker room before the National Anthem to finalize game plans, then re-enter the stadium right before kickoff. Could this routine be amended? Sure. But it doesn't appear to be anytime soon.

Let's say this too, this does not make the university or the football program unpatriotic, but it does leave some fans scratching their heads as to why some teams do stand on the field for the National Anthem.

If you attended the LSU and Army game last year in Tiger Stadium, you may have noticed that neither team was present when the Golden Band From Tigerland performed the National Anthem on the field painted to honor those who serve our country. That's just one of the latest examples of the pre-game routine at LSU.

I bring this up because some will still accuse LSU of being unpatriotic this football season, but remember, they do often honor and host U.S. Veterans for most home games.

LSU's first home game is September 7th when the Tigers host Nicolls in Tiger Stadium.

Here's a look back on what LSU did as they hosted Army in Baton Rouge during the 2023 football season.

 

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