Grambling trying to stay focused for Bayou Classic

GRAMBLING, Louisiana — Grambling’s showdown with Southern in the 40th annual Bayou Classic on national TV pales in comparison to the soap opera drama the Tigers dealt with earlier this season.

Grambling was in the spotlight more than a month ago when the team staged a boycott and walked out on the university, leaving many to wonder if the school would even play another game in 2013.

It was not only the news of the day, but the news of the week. National reporters and TV crews hovered around Grambling’s campus for days, bringing to life the hardships and tough times at the university.

Somehow, the players remained even-keeled and instead of the season sinking to the bottom, the Tigers rallied by playing some of their best football to close out the year.

So when Grambling steps on to the Superdome turf Saturday, for what interim coach Dennis Winston is dubbing the “Super Bowl,” the bright lights won’t faze the Tigers.

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