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By Jayesh Pagar
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Shaquille O’Neal has made his expectations for LSU crystal clear ahead of its highly anticipated showdown with Alabama.
The basketball legend believes anything short of a national championship would make the Tigers' season a failure.
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During an appearance on Sports Illustrated's SI TV, Shaq was asked whether LSU failing to reach the College Football Playoff would make the season unsuccessful. His response went considerably further than simply making the playoff.
“If we don't win a championship, it's a failed season. When it comes to expectations, champions put their expectations higher than earthlings put their expectations up. It ain't about making the playoffs. Lane is saying if we don't win a championship, it's a failed season,” O'Neal said.
The comment puts the spotlight on Lane Kiffin, who is in his first season as LSU's head coach. Shaq's expectations reflect the enormous standards attached to one of college football's biggest programs.
The timing of Shaq's comments is significant. LSU enters Saturday's matchup against Alabama with a 6-2 record. The Crimson Tide are 6-2.
The Tigers have won their last two games, including a convincing 38-17 victory over Auburn. However, their College Football Playoff hopes remain under pressure.
A win over Alabama would provide Kiffin with an important opportunity to strengthen the team's playoff credentials.
This is also a particularly important meeting because it marks the final year of Alabama and LSU playing annually as permanent SEC opponents.
Kiffin has already acknowledged that there is little room for error. Shaq's championship-or-bust message only adds to the expectations surrounding the Tigers.
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