LSU Stands Firm on Tradition, Rejects Anthem Policy Change

BATON ROUGE—Louisiana State University (LSU) has firmly upheld its pregame traditions, choosing to reject Governor Jeff Landry’s recent request to alter its football game-day protocol. As the Tigers gear up to face the USC Trojans in Las Vegas this Sunday, LSU’s unwavering commitment to its principles, rich history, and leadership in collegiate athletics sends a powerful message: LSU will not yield to external pressures or political influence when it comes to preserving the traditions that define its identity.

Governor Landry proposed a policy mandating that student-athletes stand for the national anthem, threatening to revoke scholarships for those who do not comply. LSU’s decision to reject this proposal highlights its dedication to maintaining its longstanding pregame traditions. “There will not be any changes to our pre-game football processes this season,” LSU Athletics spokesperson Zach Greenwell stated, reinforcing the university's commitment to its established customs.

For decades, LSU’s football players have remained in the locker room during the national anthem, a practice that has become a hallmark of the university’s game-day experience. This tradition allows LSU’s “Golden Band from Tigerland” to take center stage as they perform “Tiger Rag,” the alma mater, and the national anthem. This ritual, unchanged since the 1960s, is a significant part of LSU’s football culture and symbolizes the university’s rich history and commitment to its time-honored practices.

The request from Governor Landry gained attention after a similar situation with the LSU women’s basketball team, which was not on the court during the anthem at an NCAA tournament game against Iowa. This incident was widely discussed on social media, particularly by conservative commentators, which prompted Landry’s proposal. In response, Athletic Director Scott Woodward emphasized that while the university routinely reviews its processes, it remains committed to preserving its traditions. “We consistently look at our processes and will do so again,” Woodward said.

By rejecting the proposed changes, LSU not only reaffirms its dedication to its pregame rituals but also underscores its broader commitment to preserving the integrity of its game-day experience. The university’s decision highlights its role as a leader in collegiate sports, demonstrating a steadfast devotion to upholding the traditions that have defined its football program and contributed to its storied legacy.

LSU’s stance on the matter echoes a previous situation in 2017 when state legislators threatened to withdraw funding if players knelt during the anthem. LSU’s administration at that time also defended its practice of keeping players in the locker room, asserting that the football team’s traditions were not subject to political influence.

By maintaining its established pregame practices, LSU continues to honor its rich history and uphold the values that have shaped its identity. The university’s decision not only preserves the tradition of its game-day experience but also affirms its commitment to leading with integrity and respecting the legacy that defines LSU football.