Is LSU the Best Coaching Job in College football? Spending,Not Just tradition,May Decide.
The recent firing of LSU head coach Brian Kelly has ignited debate about the program’s future and, more broadly, whether LSU represents the moast desirable coaching position in college football. The intense passion for the Tigers within Louisiana – so strong that some high schools restrict gym access to those with state ties – underscores the program’s cultural significance. Though,according to Nick Saban,the ultimate determining factor isn’t tradition,but financial commitment to roster building.
The dismissal of Kelly followed a disappointing 49-25 loss to Texas A&M, a game where empty seats were visible in Tiger Stadium as early as the third quarter. Just 24 hours later, Kelly was relieved of his duties. Governor jeff Landry publicly questioned the university’s decision to raise ticket prices following the loss, a move one current FBS athletic director, with experience at two SEC schools, surprisingly viewed as a positive.
“They might not admit it, but a lot of schools would love to have a governor that invested in football,” the athletic director stated. ”You don’t get that everywhere… I think you can get more done at a place like LSU as it’s the flagship school, and it’s obviously critically important to that governor that they’re good in football. That’s more of a pro than a con.”
This isn’t the first instance of a Louisiana governor influencing coaching decisions. In 2015, then-Governor Bobby Jindal publicly supported Les Miles, whose job was in jeopardy heading into the final game against Texas A&M. LSU ultimately won 19-7, and miles was retained – though he was fired four games into the following season, a move that would have cost the university $15 million had it occurred earlier.
While LSU has demonstrated a willingness to act decisively with coaching changes – quicker than programs like Florida, which gave Billy Napier a fourth season despite recent struggles – success requires sustained investment. LSU recently made a significant financial push, assembling the top-rated transfer portal class and committing approximately $18 million to its 2025 roster. Though,this spending still lags behind programs like texas,Ohio State,Oregon,and texas A&M.
As Saban succinctly put it, “It gets down to not just who has the money, because a lot of these conventional schools have people who have money, but who’s going to spend the money to get these players and how long are they willing to keep spending it.”
LSU is considered a top-10 job alongside Penn State and Florida, with potential openings at Auburn and Florida State adding to the competitive landscape. Lane Kiffin was previously a top target for Florida State, and any potential departure from Ole miss after six seasons would create another attractive opportunity.ultimately, the question of whether LSU is the best job in America may hinge on its continued commitment to financial investment in its football program.
