Eleven years is a long time for an athletic director at LSU. And after that long of a tenure, it seems it was time for Joe Alleva to step away.
Athletic Director is a decidedly political position anywhere, but there’s a different level of it at LSU. The AD is appointed by the university president/chancellor, and confirmed by the Board of Supervisors, who are, themselves, appointed by the governor and confirmed by the state legislature. That adds a number of levels of politics to the position, and a lot of masters to serve. Especially in an election year.