What Is 2007 LSU Tigers football team
Content on WhatAnswers is provided "as is" for informational purposes. While we strive for accuracy, we make no guarantees. Content is AI-assisted and should not be used as professional advice.
Last updated: April 15, 2026
Key Facts
- LSU finished the 2007 season with a <strong>12-2 record</strong>, winning the BCS National Championship.
- The team defeated <strong>Ohio State 38-24</strong> in the 2008 BCS National Championship Game.
- LSU was led by head coach <strong>Les Miles</strong>, who won the Paul 'Bear' Bryant Award in 2007.
- Quarterback <strong>Matt Flynn</strong> threw for 2,602 yards and 21 touchdowns during the regular season.
- The Tigers' defense allowed only <strong>14.4 points per game</strong>, ranking among the nation's best.
Overview
The 2007 LSU Tigers football team represented Louisiana State University in the 2007 NCAA Division I FBS football season, culminating in a national championship victory. Coached by Les Miles, the team overcame early-season struggles to finish 12-2 and claim LSU's second national title in program history.
Despite losing to unranked Kentucky and SEC rival Auburn during the regular season, LSU earned a berth in the BCS National Championship Game due to strong performances in key matchups and a dominant SEC Championship win over Tennessee. The team's combination of a punishing running game, disciplined defense, and clutch playmaking defined their championship run.
- BCS National Champions: LSU defeated the Ohio State Buckeyes 38-24 in the 2008 BCS National Championship Game held in New Orleans on January 7, 2008.
- SEC Champions: The Tigers won the 2007 SEC Championship by defeating the Tennessee Volunteers 21-14 on December 1, 2007, in Atlanta.
- Head Coach:Les Miles, in his third season, was awarded the Paul 'Bear' Bryant Award and the Walter Camp Coach of the Year honor for 2007.
- Key Players: Quarterback Matt Flynn threw for 2,602 yards and 21 touchdowns, while running back Jacob Hester added 645 rushing yards and 10 scores.
- Defensive Strength: The Tigers' defense, led by tackle Glen Dorsey and linebacker Ramon Humber, allowed just 14.4 points per game during the season.
Season Highlights
The 2007 campaign featured dramatic wins, pivotal moments, and a resilient team identity forged through adversity. LSU's journey included road victories, a dominant bowl performance, and a national title that solidified their place in college football history.
- Season Opener: LSU defeated Appalachian State 38-14 in September 2007, just weeks after Appalachian State's famous upset of Michigan.
- SEC Championship: The Tigers defeated #8 Tennessee 21-14 in the conference title game, with Matt Flynn throwing two touchdown passes.
- Regular Season Losses: LSU lost to Auburn 24-17 in October and to unranked Kentucky 43-37 in November, both on the road.
- Bowl Game: The national title game was held at the Superdome in New Orleans, giving LSU a de facto home-field advantage with over 70% of fans supporting them.
- Championship Performance: Running back Keiland Williams scored two second-half touchdowns, helping LSU overcome a halftime deficit against Ohio State.
- Final AP Ranking: LSU finished #1 in the final AP Poll, while Ohio State dropped to #7 after their loss.
Comparison at a Glance
LSU's 2007 season compared favorably to other top contenders in key statistical and performance categories. The table below highlights how the Tigers stacked up against major championship competitors.
| Category | LSU Tigers | Ohio State | USC | Kentucky |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overall Record | 12-2 | 11-2 | 10-2 | 9-4 |
| Points Per Game | 30.7 | 33.8 | 35.2 | 28.5 |
| Points Allowed Per Game | 14.4 | 18.5 | 14.9 | 20.8 |
| Passing Yards | 2,334 | 2,476 | 2,895 | 1,987 |
| Rushing Yards | 2,018 | 1,424 | 1,512 | 1,784 |
LSU ranked among the nation's elite in defensive efficiency and turnover margin, finishing with a +14 turnover differential. Their balanced offense and ability to win close games set them apart from higher-scoring but less consistent teams like USC and Ohio State.
Why It Matters
The 2007 LSU Tigers' national championship had lasting implications for college football, program legacy, and the evolution of the BCS system. Their success highlighted the importance of resilience, team cohesion, and postseason performance.
- Program Legacy: The title was LSU's second national championship, following their 2003 title, cementing their status as a modern college football powerhouse.
- BCS Controversy: Despite two losses, LSU reached the BCS title game, fueling ongoing debate about the selection process and the need for a playoff system.
- Recruiting Boost: The championship significantly elevated LSU's recruiting profile, helping attract top-tier talent in subsequent years.
- Coach Recognition: Les Miles won multiple Coach of the Year awards, enhancing his national reputation and securing long-term stability for the program.
- Player Development: Several players, including Matt Flynn and Glenn Dorsey, were selected in the 2008 NFL Draft, with Dorsey going in the first round.
- SEC Dominance: The win reinforced the Southeastern Conference's national dominance, contributing to its reputation for producing championship-caliber teams.
The 2007 season remains a defining chapter in LSU football history, remembered for its dramatic highs, defensive excellence, and a championship victory that resonated across college football.
More What Is in Sports
Also in Sports
More "What Is" Questions
Trending on WhatAnswers
Browse by Topic
Browse by Question Type
Sources
- WikipediaCC-BY-SA-4.0
Missing an answer?
Suggest a question and we'll generate an answer for it.