'Nobody gave us the time of day,' says LSU president on Tigers

LSU President F. King Alexander said the Tigers are playing with a chip on their shoulders after being disrespected by college football pundits entering the season.

"Nobody gave us the time of day going into the season," Alexander said in an interview with USA Today Network. "This team feels like it has something to prove and it's proving it."

He also gave LSU Coach Ed Orgeron a thumbs up. Orgeron was considered to be a coach on the hot seat in some circles entering the season.

"Coach O is doing a great job," Alexander said.  "We're thrilled."

LSU entered the season ranked No. 25 in the country but has climbed to No. 6 after road wins against Miami and Auburn, which were both ranked in the Top 10 when they played the Tigers.

"That's the lowest we've been ranked to begin the season since I've been here and we have the toughest schedule in the country," Alexander said.

LSU takes a break from ranked teams this week with a home game at 6 p.m. Saturday against Louisiana Tech, which is also 2-0.

"Louisiana Tech has a good team," Alexander said. "I hope we're getting ready for Tech like we did for Miami and Auburn."

Louisiana Tech President Les Guice said the Bulldogs, who have won four straight bowl games, have a healthy respect for LSU, but he doesn't believe Tech will be intimidated.

"Our fans are excited about coming to Tiger stadium and seeing how our Bulldogs shape up against one of the best teams in the nation," Guice said.

Even as Alexander celebrates the Tigers' meteoric early season rise, changing roles to the favorite makes him nervous.

"I like our position, but I liked playing the role of the underdog," said Alexander, perhaps recalling Troy's upset win in Tiger Stadium last year.

"It's a great start to a great season and we appreciate all of the support from our fans and alumni," Alexander said.

Greg Hilburn covers state politics for the USA TODAY Network of Louisiana. Follow him on Twitter @GregHilburn1