I saw several acts of good sportsmanship, too.

[The Tigers saw Black Hawk helicopters fly over as they practiced in Baton Rouge, bringing in the injured. Just 200 yards from their stadium the injured were treated.] We were surrounded by a real-life problem, ... They wanted this game for the people back home. They would not be denied.

Other acts have been almost like drunken recklessness. This is like they were here on a mission. They were here for something.

I'm thinking that I shouldn't have filed my nails last night.

We left the field not feeling like we played like we're capable, and I think that's a similarity to how we left the field against Tennessee [in a 30-27 overtime loss on Sept. 26]. It's a fundamental response, very personal in nature. Anytime you know deep in your gut you didn't get it done, it puts a little more edge on your team.

It becomes awfully important at the end of the game when it's yours. If that trophy goes away from you, it means a lot more to you whether it be a boot, a shoe or a toothpick.