The rich history of Louisiana State University (LSU) football is woven into the fabric of the state’s culture, with traditions that have been passed down through generations of fans. From the pre-game rituals to the post-game celebrations, LSU football is steeped in custom and pageantry. Here are five of the most significant traditions that make LSU football so unique.
1. Touchdown Jesus
One of the most iconic LSU football traditions is “Touchdown Jesus,” a massive mural painted on the side of the Catholic Student Center near Tiger Stadium. The mural depicts Jesus Christ with his arms raised in triumph, and it’s become a beloved landmark for LSU fans. According to legend, the mural was originally painted in the 1980s by a group of students, and it’s been restored and maintained over the years. While its origins are somewhat murky, “Touchdown Jesus” has become an integral part of the LSU football experience, with fans often taking photos in front of the mural before games.
2. Geaux Tigers Chant
The “Geaux Tigers” chant is a staple of LSU football games, with fans enthusiastically cheering on their team with this iconic phrase. The chant has its roots in the Cajun French phrase “allez,” which means “go” or “let’s go.” Over time, the phrase evolved into “Geaux Tigers,” a unique blend of Cajun French and English that’s become synonymous with LSU football. The chant is often led by the LSU cheerleaders and is a key part of the pre-game atmosphere.
- The "Geaux Tigers" chant is a unique blend of Cajun French and English.
- The phrase has its roots in the Cajun French word "allez," meaning "go" or "let's go."
- The chant is often led by the LSU cheerleaders and is a key part of the pre-game atmosphere.
3. Mike the Tiger
Mike the Tiger is LSU’s official mascot, a costumed character that appears at games and events throughout the year. The tradition of Mike the Tiger dates back to 1936, when a live tiger was first brought to LSU games. Today, Mike VI is the current iteration of the mascot, and he’s become an beloved figure among LSU fans. Mike’s appearances are always met with enthusiasm, and he’s a key part of the LSU football experience.
4. Death Valley
Tiger Stadium, LSU’s home stadium, is affectionately known as “Death Valley” due to its intimidating atmosphere. The nickname was coined in the 1950s, when the stadium’s tough playing conditions and loud crowds made it a formidable venue for opposing teams. Today, “Death Valley” is one of the most feared stadiums in college football, with a reputation for being a hostile environment for visiting teams.
| Year | Attendance | Opponent |
|---|---|---|
| 2019 | 102,321 | Alabama |
| 2020 | 92,547 | Ole Miss |
| 2021 | 97,735 | Florida |
5. LSU Band’s Pregame Performance
The LSU Tiger Marching Band is renowned for its energetic pre-game performance, which includes the iconic “LSU Tiger Marching Band Pregame Show.” The performance features a series of intricate drills and formations, culminating in the band marching onto the field to the tune of “Tiger Rag.” It’s a thrilling spectacle that gets fans pumped up and ready for the game.
LSU Band's Pregame Performance: A Step-by-Step Breakdown
- The band performs a series of intricate drills and formations on the field.
- The performance culminates in the band marching onto the field to the tune of "Tiger Rag."
- The band's energetic performance gets fans pumped up and ready for the game.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the origin of the "Geaux Tigers" chant?
+The "Geaux Tigers" chant has its roots in the Cajun French phrase "allez," which means "go" or "let's go." The phrase evolved over time into "Geaux Tigers," a unique blend of Cajun French and English that's become synonymous with LSU football.
Why is Tiger Stadium called "Death Valley"?
+Tiger Stadium is called "Death Valley" due to its intimidating atmosphere and tough playing conditions. The nickname was coined in the 1950s, and it's become one of the most feared stadiums in college football.
What is the significance of "Touchdown Jesus"?
+"Touchdown Jesus" is a mural painted on the side of the Catholic Student Center near Tiger Stadium. While its exact origins are unclear, it's become an iconic landmark for LSU fans and a symbol of the program's rich history and tradition.
How long has Mike the Tiger been a part of LSU football tradition?
+Mike the Tiger has been a part of LSU football tradition for over 80 years, representing the program's strength and ferocity. The tradition dates back to 1936, when a live tiger was first brought to LSU games.
In conclusion, LSU football is steeped in tradition and pageantry, with a rich history that spans generations. From “Touchdown Jesus” to Mike the Tiger, these five traditions are an integral part of the LSU football experience, making it one of the most unique and exciting programs in college football.
