LSU announced no immediate changes to its coaching staff following Saturday’s 49-25 loss to Texas A&M, but sources suggest Brian Kelly‘s position remains under intense scrutiny.
The Athletic’s Stewart Mandel reported that Kelly could be relieved of his duties despite a $53.3 million buyout clause. The Tigers dropped to 5-3 overall and 2-3 in SEC play after the defeat at Tiger Stadium.
LSU will fall out of the top 25 rankings when they’re released Sunday.
The loss marked the Tigers’ second consecutive defeat and third this season. Athletic Director Scott Woodward previously dismissed Ed Orgeron less than two years after the 2019 national championship, suggesting he won’t hesitate to make another coaching change.
“No. 20 LSU (5-3, 2-3) has lost three of its past four, and will no longer be ranked come Sunday afternoon. We’ll see whether Kelly, who has a staggering $53 million buyout, will still be employed by then,” Mandel wrote.
Performance Issues Mount
Kelly’s program has regressed each season since arriving from Notre Dame. The Tigers reached the SEC Championship game in 2022 but haven’t maintained that trajectory despite significant financial investment.
LSU tripled its NIL payroll to $18 million this season, according to Kelly’s August comments. The increased spending hasn’t translated to improved results on the field.
The team’s season-opening victory over then-No. 5 Clemson initially appeared promising. Clemson has since fallen to 3-4, making that early win less impressive.
LSU’s offensive line struggles have plagued the team throughout the season. The defense has also faltered in recent weeks, particularly without star linebacker Whit Weeks.
Sideline Behavior Draws Criticism
Television cameras captured Kelly’s heated exchanges during Saturday’s loss. He was shown yelling at quarterback Garrett Nussmeier and cursing at offensive coordinator Joe Sloan over the headset.
Kelly also attempted to throw his headset in frustration before realizing it was attached to him.
“Compounding all of that, Kelly is famously … what’s the word … divisive? Saturday night, the cameras showed him yelling in quarterback Garrett Nussmeier’s face, cursing out offensive coordinator Joe Sloan over the headset and trying to throw that same headset in disgust, only to realize it was attached to him,” Mandel wrote.
Cultural Fit Concerns
Kelly’s tenure began controversially when he adopted a fake southern accent during his introductory appearance at an LSU basketball game on December 3, 2021. The attempt at connecting with local culture backfired among fans and media.
His recruiting videos also received criticism for their awkward tone and delivery.
The 64-year-old coach’s personality and approach haven’t resonated with SEC audiences or LSU’s fanbase. His confrontational style differs significantly from the program’s recent coaching hires.
Financial Considerations
The $53.3 million buyout represents a significant financial obstacle for LSU. However, schools have consistently found ways to fund coaching changes when performance doesn’t meet expectations.
LSU’s investment in NIL and facilities demonstrates the administration’s commitment to competing at the highest level. Kelly’s results haven’t justified that level of spending.
“There are $53 million reasons to assume he’ll still be on the sideline, but as we’ve seen over and over this season, schools always find the money,” Mandel noted.
LSU has a bye week before traveling to face Alabama, currently ranked in the top five. The Tigers will likely enter that game as significant underdogs.
The administration faces a decision between continuing with Kelly or absorbing the financial cost of a coaching change. Fan sentiment strongly favors dismissal despite the buyout implications.
