re: LSU didn't get worse, the SEC West got better.

The money from TV contacts has improved the conference. The arms race is at an all time high. Coaching staff salaries are attracting top talent. For frick sakes Mississippi state had Croom back when LSU was winning national championships. Ole Miss had Orgeron, and Alabama in 07 did not have 1 single person drafted in any of the 7 rds of the NFL Draft. Only Auburn with Tubs was a threat.

The monster 2003 and 2004 recruiting classes Saban left @ LSU were maturing during a time when the rest of the west was down and has caused LSU to have some warped since of reality of where they stand.

They are coming back to the pack and they don't understand that there are 8 or 9 teams with 100 million dollar athletic budgets. There are 9 or 10 teams are in talent rich states or have access to to elite players. The SEC in its current form is a meat grinder and getting rid of Les want change that.

Bama historically has the best program and right now they have the best coach. When Saban leaves they will come back to the pack as well.