| The Brian Kelly critics are multiplying. After LSU stumbled out of the gate with a season-opening loss for the fifth straight year, the third straight under Kelly, fans are grumbling. Media types who have never liked him are taking their shots at his angry outburst after the Tigers got beat 27-20 by USC on Sunday in Las Vegas. While Kelly's 20-8 record (3-6 against ranked opponents) isn't stellar, it isn't in any way enough to put him on the hot seat. But it's a fair question to ask when, or if, Kelly will get the Tigers in position to be a national title contender once again? We consider where Kelly and LSU are after yet another disappointing opening performance in today's column. Bad news for the Tigers and one of the most veteran LSU players, as tailback John Emery reportedly has suffered a season-ending knee injury. You'll recall that Emery gave the Tigers their best spark in the running game against the Trojans. Now that spark will have to come from someone else. While Emery is done, cornerback Zy Alexander is on his way back from injury. Check out what Kelly said about Alexander's gradual return, starting with Saturday's home opener against Nicholls State. Finally, check out the latest championship odds on the Tigers. yes, they still have a shot. Thanks for reading and subscribing. We've got a lot more content for you leading up to Saturday's kickoff, so keep checking back with us. Scott Rabalais | 