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Helmet History

College Football Programs | LSU Tigers, Helmet History
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LSU Tigers Football History

The LSU Tigers represent the Louisiana State University and began playing football in 1893 and have competed in the Southeastern Conference (SEC) since 1933. LSU's Tiger Stadium is one of the largest and loudest stadiums in college football, with a capacity of over 102,000.

The Tigers' most successful era came under head coach Paul Dietzel, who led the team to its first national championship in 1958. Dietzel's Tigers were known for their high-powered offense and dominant defense.

LSU won its second national championship in 2003 under head coach Nick Saban. Saban's Tigers were led by quarterback Matt Mauck and a star-studded defense that included All-Americans Marcus Spears and Tyrann Mathieu. LSU won its third national championship in 2007 under head coach Les Miles. Miles' Tigers were led by quarterback JaMarcus Russell and a powerful running game that featured Jacob Hester and Keiland Williams.

The Tigers won their fourth national championship in 2019 under head coach Ed Orgeron. Orgeron's Tigers were led by quarterback Joe Burrow, wide receiver Ja'Marr Chase, and a dominant defense that included All-Americans Derek Stingley Jr. and Grant Delpit. The Tigers have had numerous notable players over the years, including:

  • Billy Cannon (Heisman Trophy winner in 1959)
  • Bert Jones Jr. (Heisman Trophy runner-up in 1972)
  • Glenn Dorsey (Heisman Trophy runner-up in 2007)
  • Joe Burrow (Heisman Trophy winner in 2019)
  • Jim Taylor (1957 All-American)
  • Doc Fenton (Early 20th Century Ahll of Fame QB)
  • Ja'Marr Chase (2021 NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year)

For more history of the LSU Tigers consult the posts collected below.

Dive into the Depths of College Football

Take a deep dive into the history and origins of the top gridiron teams and programs at the collegiate level. We celebrate the game of American football right from its roots. The concept started with youngsters of different schools competing against each other and the game at that level still thrives.

College football – a tapestry woven from roaring stadiums, electrifying plays, and passionate rivalries. But beyond the spectacle, lies the beating heart of the sport: the college football programs themselves. Each one, a unique ecosystem of tradition, strategy, and vibrant personalities, shaping the future of the game and inspiring generations of fans. In this series, we'll delve deep into these programs, exploring their storied histories, iconic figures, and the intricate dance of coaching philosophies and player development that shapes their triumphs and challenges. So, grab your jersey, settle in, and prepare to be swept away by the captivating world of college football programs, where legends are forged, dynasties built, and every Saturday becomes a battleground for gridiron glory!

LSU Tigers Gridiron Traditions and History

In the sweltering heart of the Deep South, where Spanish moss drapes and ancient oaks and bayou waters snake through fertile fields, roars a legend. This isn't just a place; it's a cauldron of passion, a crucible where dreams are forged in crimson and gold. This is Baton Rouge, Louisiana, and its beating heart? LSU Tigers football.

Their story isn't just about wins and losses, records and rankings. It's a saga woven from the sweat of champions, the roar of Death Valley, and the unyielding spirit of a state that bleeds purple and gold. We'll rewind to the gridiron of 1893, where LSU's first roars echoed, tracing the rise of legends like Billy Cannon and Steve Young, the dynasty forged under Coach Nick Saban, and the electrifying magic of "Tiger Stadium after dark."

But LSU football is more than just trophies and touchdowns. It's about the loud chants of Tiger fans, the gumbo simmering outside tailgates, and the generations bound by their love for the team. We'll delve into the mascot's origin, exploring the impact of LSU on Louisiana's identity, the intertwined history of logos, players, and the game, and the unwavering resilience that defines Tiger Nation.

Helmet History

The LSU Tigers football helmet symbolizes tradition and evolution, reflecting the program's storied history and changing landscape. Here's a synopsis of its key design phases:

-1893-1924: Early Days and the First Stripes: LSU's initial foray into helmets featured simple leather caps without logos or markings. By 1923, a single white stripe appeared down the center, a precursor to the iconic tiger stripes.

-1925-1961: The Birth of Mike the Tiger and the Double Stripe: In 1925, the beloved mascot Mike the Tiger was officially adopted, and his image soon adorned the helmet. The single white stripe evolved into a double stripe design, solidifying the now-iconic look.

-1962-1972: Experimentation and the Purple Tigers: Seeking differentiation, LSU briefly experimented with purple helmets and tiger paw logos. This era also saw the addition of player numbers on the side.

-1973-Present: Refining the Stripes and Adding Details: The classic double white stripes returned in 1973, accompanied by smaller tiger paw decals on the sides. Over the years, minor tweaks were made, like adding the fleur-de-lis logo behind the facemask and the "Death Valley" inscription inside the helmet.

-Present Day: An Evolving Canvas: LSU continues to explore variations within the established framework. Alternate helmets featuring matte finishes, shades of purple, and commemorative decals have been worn occasionally to celebrate milestones or rivalries.

Thus, the LSU Tigers football helmet is a dynamic symbol, not a static artifact. It seamlessly blends tradition with modern touches, showcasing the program's rich history while adapting to the ever-evolving world of college football.

Orville Mulligan: Sports Writer
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