Rise and Shine for Kickoff

   LSU followers are about to learn if you have to get up pretty early in the morning to fool Les Miles and staff. With Hurricane Gustav bearing down on the area, Saturday's kickoff against Appalachian State has been advanced six hours to 10 a.m. local time.

   Much of the pre-game hoopla that is embedded in LSU football has been cancelled because of the storm. The more sober (literally and figuratively) environment could compromise the Tigers' notorious home-field edge. (Rule of thumb: The earlier the game, the better off are opponents.)

   As far as motivation, Miles need only utter two words Saturday morn to ignite his team: Michigan Wolverines. They were ambushed by App State in last season's opener.

   Any concerns among LSU followers? Any increased hopes among Tiger haters?

   A quick prayer that Loo-sianans are spared the wrath of Gustav and won't be required any unexpected labor (i.e., storm clean-up) on Labor Day weekend.