LSU Football Coaching Vacancy: How It Stacks Up
The college football coaching carousel is spinning, and LSU’s head coaching job is among the most coveted openings in the Power 4 (ACC, Big Ten, Big 12, SEC). With Brian Kelly’s exit to the NFL, the Tigers seek a leader to helm one of college football’s premier programs. But how attractive is LSU compared to other Power 4 vacancies? Here’s an in-depth analysis.
Why LSU Is a Top-Tier Power 4 Job
LSU stands as a powerhouse in the SEC, boasting:
– National Championships: 3 titles since 2003, including the 2019 CFP win.
– Elite Recruiting Grounds: Louisiana is talent-rich, and LSU dominates in-state recruitment.
– SEC Exposure: High-profile matchups and a direct path to the College Football Playoff.
– NIL Firepower: Among the strongest collectives in the country.
Challenges:
– Sky-High Expectations: Coaches face immense pressure (e.g., Ed Orgeron’s post-title exit).
– SEC West Gauntlet: Alabama, Texas, Oklahoma, and Ole Miss create a brutal schedule.
Ranking LSU Against Other Open Power 4 Jobs
1. USC Trojans (Big Ten)
Pros: Blue-blood brand, elite California recruiting, Lincoln Riley’s offensive foundation.
Cons: Defensive struggles, Big Ten transition, inconsistent recent results.
Verdict: Close, but LSU’s SEC edge gives it the nod.
2. Florida Gators (SEC)
Pros: fertile Florida recruiting, SEC prestige, passionate fanbase.
Cons: Roster rebuild required, annual matchups vs. Georgia/Texas/LSU.
Verdict: A step below LSU in current appeal.
3. Michigan State Spartans (Big Ten)
Pros: Lower pressure, Big Ten stability.
Cons: Limited local talent, overshadowed by Michigan.
Verdict: Not in LSU’s tier—a project job.
4. Oklahoma State Cowboys (Big 12)
Pros: Consistent competitiveness, loyal fanbase.
Cons: Fewer resources than SEC giants.
Verdict: Mid-tier compared to LSU’s elite status.
Final Ranking: Top Power 4 Coaching Jobs Open
- LSU – Resources, recruiting, and SEC pedigree.
- USC – Brand power but questions in the Big Ten.
- Florida – High ceiling but needs overhaul.
- Michigan State – Rebuilding project.
- Oklahoma State – Solid but not elite.
Top Candidates for the LSU Job
Speculation includes:
– James Franklin (Penn State)
– Lane Kiffin (Ole Miss)
– Dan Lanning (Oregon)
– Dark Horse: Urban Meyer (if NFL stumbles don’t deter LSU).
Whoever takes the role will inherit a program built for championships—but with zero margin for error.
