LSU and Brian Kelly in Standoff Over staff Changes, Future Uncertain: sources
Baton Rouge – Less than a day after a decisive 49-25 home loss to Texas A&M, the future of LSU head football coach Brian Kelly is in question, according to two program sources.Discussions are underway involving LSU leadership, including Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry, to determine the program’s path forward and Kelly’s role within it. Landry met wiht the LSU board of Supervisors Sunday evening to address the situation.
The tension stems from concerns about the team’s offensive performance. Following LSU’s third loss in four games, Athletic director Scott Woodward reportedly requested Kelly make staff changes, specifically the firing of offensive coordinator joe sloan, to address an offense currently last in the SEC in rushing yards per game.
However,a meeting between Kelly and Woodward on Sunday afternoon reportedly escalated when Kelly countered Woodward’s request with proposed staff moves that Woodward did not support. A program source described the situation as deteriorating “fast.”
The possibility of negotiating a settlement of Kelly’s $53 million buyout was raised, though the LSU Board of Supervisors’ authorization for such a move remains uncertain. The university is currently operating with interim president Matt Lee, dean of the College of Agriculture, following William Tate’s departure for Rutgers in May.
Kelly and the LSU staff have left the football facility while awaiting a resolution. Kelly’s agent, Trace Armstrong, has not yet responded to requests for comment.
Kelly began the season with high expectations, as LSU was ranked No. 9 in the AP poll. He noted the team’s roster cost $18 million to assemble, a meaningful increase from the previous year’s $6 million investment. He publicly stated aspiring goals for the 2025 season following a perceived regression in his third year.
“We’re taking receipts … and we’ll see you at the national championship,” Kelly said after LSU concluded the previous season with a win against Oklahoma (6-6).
Despite the high expectations, Kelly’s record at LSU stands at 34-14, with a 5-11 record against ranked opponents. The offense currently ranks No. 105 nationally in rushing yards per carry (3.78) and No. 83 in scoring (25.5 points per game).
LSU players are scheduled to have Monday off as the team enters a bye week before facing No. 4 Alabama on November 8.
