The state of the Tiger Nation is stronger than ever. The team was focused, the execution was nearly flawless, and an energized crowd was more than happy to cheer on what was a dominating performance. Sure, the win was expected. LSU was favored to walk in the stadium and thrash the Bulldogs, and that's exactly what they did. However, it was the way they did it, with a crisp, efficient offense, and a devestating defensive line, that turns LSU from a solid team to a BCS-level team.

If there was any sign to why LSU was going to remain dominant, and show that they really mean business, it's the way they entered the stadium to start the second half. One thing I've learned is that a team's morale and hunger can be defined in how they come into the stadium in the closing seconds of halftime. When Arkansas came out a week ago, everyone was jogging hard...while Alabama was a lot slower getting to their sideline. The Hogs came bcak and won in double overtime. Last Thursday, when Carolina came out, they jogged confidently, while Auburn slow trotted over...and the Gamecocks, who have far less talent than Auburn, came back and gave the Tigers all they had.

Yesterday, even with a huge lead, LSU came out jogging hard. The hunger was still there. There was still fire in the eyes. This, above anything, is why LSU right now could be the best team in the SEC, despite their 1-1 conference mark.

"I have to tell you guys something," said LSU Head Coach Les Miles. "Our boys...they really love playing football. Give them a patch a grass and a football and they're ready to play. They need nothing else for motivation."

If that doesn't send out a warning message to the SEC, what can?

The Capital One Bowl reps were there for this one, as they were for the Arkansas win in Fayetteville, and the Auburn-Carolina game in Columbia. The reps like Florida, Auburn, LSU, Arkansas, and Georgia right now for sure, and you could probably throw Tennessee in there as well. However, of those teams, LSU has delivered the most impressive performances. To be honest, it still floors me that LSU lost to Auburn. LSU won every stat but the final score, and Auburn has not looked impressive in the last two outings.

Baton Rouge is definitely a fun place to watch a game, and the stadium is LOUD, even in the daytime. Walking out of the press room, you go through the same tunnel the players do to get back on the field and eventually out of the stadium. Walking through that tunnel...even when empty, you stand in awe of the massive stadium in front of you. Tiger Stadium is truly a great cathedral of college football.

We'll have more from Baton Rouge, as Mission: SE Football continues its coverage from Tigerland. So far though, it's been fun times down on the bayou!