LSU players look at open date differently

• By JASON RUSSELL
• Advocate sportswriter
• Published: Oct 4, 2008 - UPDATED: 12:05 a.m.

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Everything hasn’t been quite normal for the 2008 LSU football team.

First, there was the early morning kickoff against Appalachian State. Then the postponed game against Troy, giving the Tigers an unscheduled off week after just one game.

And now, even though it was already scheduled this way, a second open date today after just four games — all wins — and a move to No. 2 (USA Today) and No. 3 (Associated Press) in the most recent college football polls.

Coming off a 34-24 victory over Mississippi State, the Tigers get to sit back and relax as they get ready for a showdown with No. 12 Florida on Oct. 11 in Gainesville, Fla.

“I like to be a spectator and just sit back and watch football and look at other team’s defenses — just be a college football fan,” defensive end Tyson Jackson said.

Wide receiver Demetrius Byrd is still contemplating what to do with his free time this weekend.

“I haven’t decided what I’m going to do Saturday,” Byrd said. “I haven’t planned for the weekend yet.”

And not even watching upcoming foe Florida play Arkansas interests Byrd.

“To be honest with you, I probably won’t even watch the game because I’m going to be mad that we’re not playing — just like during the hurricane. I was mad watching the other games, saying ‘Man we’re supposed to be playing,’” he said. “I had to turn the TV off.”

Byrd said he would rather be playing this week than just sitting around.

“I think my teammates feel the same way. I don’t think they want to take a rest,” he said. I just love the game of football. I really don’t like chillin’. Even when I get hurt, I try to rush myself back and keep on playing. I just love football and it’s something I like to do.”

Running back Keiland Williams might check out another Southeastern Conference matchup Saturday.