It is pretty safe to say the LSU football team was ill prepared for its rematch with the Alabama Crimson Tide in Monday’s BCS National Championship Game in New Orleans, which they lost 21-0.

The Tiger offense never made it into Alabama territory and was only able to amass 92 total yards. Meanwhile the defense surrendered five field goals and a late rushing touchdown. The team looked lost and confused most of the evening.

Although it was a big loss on a big stage, it is not fair to say that this game diminishes everything LSU accomplished this year. The Tigers finished 13-1 on the year with a schedule that included eight top 25-ranked teams (six of which were still ranked at the end of the season), nine SEC teams and tough out-of-conference road wins. LSU also had to face a No. 2-ranked Alabama team, with a coach at the top of his game, twice in one season — a tall task for any team to undertake.

The loss also should not diminish the efforts of the players who hail from the River Parishes. Linebacker Stefoin Francois of East St. John, offensive tackle Alex Bonnette of Riverside Academy, wide receiver Jarvis Landry of Lutcher High School, running back Alfred Blue of Hahnville High School and quarterback Jordan Jefferson of Destrehan High School all contributed their talents to get LSU where it needed to be this season. They deserve congratulations for a job well done.

It is time to stop dwelling on the “what could have been” and start focusing on “what is to come.” LSU is a young team deep in talent that will be a force in the gridiron in 2012. Geaux Tigers!