As the college football landscape continues to evolve, one team that stands out in the early discussions is LSU. Joel Klatt has placed the Tigers at No. 9 in his Way-Too-Early Top-10 rankings, signaling that this season could be pivotal for the program and head coach Brian Kelly.
Brian Kelly’s Critical Year
Entering his fourth season at the helm, Brian Kelly faces a crucial juncture in his tenure at LSU. Klatt emphasized the importance of this year, stating, “I think this is a critical year, obviously, for Brian Kelly. They’ve got to show a — I don’t want to call it dramatic — I would call it significant. They need to show a significant step in the right direction and I don’t think that’s out of the question.”
LSU’s Recent Performance
Through three seasons in Baton Rouge, Kelly has compiled a record of 29-11, boasting a .725 winning percentage. While he has guided the Tigers to at least nine wins each year, the program has fallen short of its lofty expectations. With only one appearance in the SEC Championship in 2022 and no College Football Playoff berths, there’s a palpable sense of urgency. Last season marked a setback, as Kelly did not achieve double-digit wins for the first time and tied for his most losses at LSU.
Reasons for Optimism: The Transfer Portal
So, what’s fueling the optimism for LSU this season? For starters, the Tigers have been active in the transfer portal, bringing in a new class of players that ranks No. 5 in On3’s 2025 Team Transfer Portal Rankings. With 16 new additions, including a dozen players in the Top-200 of On3’s Top Transfer Portal Players, LSU is looking to bolster its roster significantly.
“They have been active, certainly in the portal…They have replenished their wide receiver group and their offensive line through the portal,” Klatt noted. “They’ve hit the portal really hard and I think that their portal additions are going to be huge for LSU.”
Defensive Improvements on the Horizon
In addition to their offensive reinforcements, LSU’s defense is set to improve as well. After showing signs of resurgence last fall, the Tigers return key players for a second season under their defensive coordinator, Blake Baker. Klatt expressed confidence in the defense’s potential, stating, “I think the defense has got to be improved and it should improve.”
With standout players like Harold Perkins, who is returning after dealing with positional challenges and an ACL injury, and Whit Weeks, a tackling machine, the defensive unit is poised to make strides. The continuity and experience on that side of the ball could be a game changer for LSU.
The Quarterback Factor
Perhaps the most significant reason for optimism is the return of Garrett Nussmeier. The quarterback, who threw for 4,052 yards with a 64.2% completion rate, 29 touchdowns, and 12 interceptions last season, is back for his fifth year. Klatt underscored the importance of having an experienced quarterback, stating, “More so than anything, they get Nussmeier back. You know how I feel about experienced quarterbacks.”
In a sport where seasoned quarterbacks often lead teams to success, Nussmeier’s experience could be the key to unlocking LSU’s potential. Klatt pointed out the trend of experienced quarterbacks making a significant impact, referencing recent successes from players like Michael Penix and J.J. McCarthy. With Nussmeier at the helm, LSU is positioned to compete at a high level.
Aiming for Higher Standards
While LSU has achieved notable successes during Kelly’s tenure, the standard at the program is undeniably high. The last three coaches have set the bar with national titles, and the Tigers are eager to make that leap. As they head into the 2025 season, LSU is likely to be ranked among the Top-10, reflecting the expectations surrounding the program.
“I’ve got LSU at number nine,” Klatt declared. “LSU is in my Top-10. Big year for Brian Kelly. They’re at number nine.”
The Road Ahead
With a blend of new talent, returning stars, and an experienced quarterback, LSU is gearing up for a season filled with promise. The Tigers are not just looking to maintain their status but to elevate it, aiming for a significant step forward under Brian Kelly’s leadership. As the season approaches, fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see if LSU can deliver on the high expectations set for them.
In the world of college football, every season is a new opportunity, and for LSU, the stakes have never been higher. Will they rise to the occasion and reclaim their place among the elite? Only time will tell, but one thing is for sure: the excitement surrounding LSU football is palpable as they prepare for what could be a transformative season.
