LSU's Peterson gone...Miles to stay...that is the Question

Although LSU is losing its best defensive back to the NFL, the Tigers’ strong finish to the 2010 season left little doubt that they were back among the elite in the Southeastern Conference and poised to contend for a national title next season. The biggest question hanging over LSU following its 11-2 season and 41-24 win over Texas A&M in the Cotton Bowl was whether Les Miles would still be the head coach when the Tigers take the field in 2011. LSU scheduled a press conference for cornerback and return man Patrick Peterson on Monday in which he planned to announce his intention to turn pro, a person familiar with the decision told The Associated Press.pending, but Peterson’s decision hardly came as a surprise. The 6-foot-1, 222-pound junior had acknowledged since the season began that he would give serious consideration turning pro before his senior year. Miles, who has yet to publicly discuss his intentions for next season, was expected to join Peterson at the announcement. Miles is widely considered a top candidate to fill the head coaching vacancy at Michigan, where he played and worked as an assistant coach, and where the athletic director, Dave Brandon, was a former teammate.

LSU Athletic Director Joe Alleva said Sunday that Michigan had yet to contact LSU about speaking with Miles. Michigan is not required to seek permission to speak with LSU’s coach, but that is considered a common courtesy. When asked earlier about Michigan’s opening, Miles has said only that he loves being the coach of LSU. He has not yet promised to return next season, although his current players have said he has given them the impression he plans to be back.