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The LSU Tigers’ head coaching carousel is spinning once again after the program fired Brian Kelly on Sunday night following a 5-3 start to the 2025 season and a blowout loss at home to Texas A&M. As the Tigers search for their next head coach, one familiar name is making headlines: Ed Orgeron. As Sports Illustrated noted, during an interview with ESPN’s UnSportsmanLike, the former LSU head coach, who led the Tigers to a national championship in 2019, reacted candidly to Kelly’s dismissal and the current state of the program. “I think that’s one of the things, whether it’s true or not, the look from the outside, Brian Kelly never embraced the state of Louisiana,” Orgeron said. “When you get those guys on your side, it’s very powerful. I think getting everybody to pull in the same direction, like Pete Carroll did, like we did, one team, one heartbeat, is gonna be the key for the next coach.” Despite his own firing in 2021, Orgeron continues to speak highly of LSU and its people. He made it clear that, if the opportunity ever arose, he’d have no hesitation about returning to Baton Rouge. “I’d love to,” Orgeron said when asked if he’d take the LSU job again. “Are you kidding me? Hey, I’m one phone call away. I just gotta get in my truck, I could be there today.” (Coach O Voice) LSU’s Coaching Search Begins After Brian Kelly’s Exit Brian Kelly’s departure comes amid rising frustration within the LSU fanbase and athletic department after an inconsistent start to the 2025 campaign. In three and a half seasons, Kelly posted a solid 34-14 record but failed to reach the championship expectations that come with leading one of the SEC’s premier programs. Now, the LSU opening is among the most coveted positions in college football. Early speculation has centered around Ole Miss head coach Lane Kiffin, who is reportedly at the top of LSU’s target list. If Kiffin were to make the jump, Orgeron hinted that he’d even consider joining his former colleague’s staff in an assistant role. The two coaches previously shared a strong working relationship during their time together at USC and have maintained mutual respect and a friendship ever since. “Yeah, I’d consider it,” Orgeron said. “I love LSU. I still got my home in Baton Rouge. I loved when I was coaching for Coach Miles being the defensive line coach. I love the Tigers, and if I’m getting back into coaching, for sure I’d consider it. No doubt.” Orgeron’s Legacy in Baton Rouge Ed Orgeron remains one of the most beloved figures in LSU’s football history During his five-year tenure, he rebuilt the program’s culture and guided the Tigers to a 15-0 national championship season in 2019. Their undefeated season is considered one of the most dominant runs in college football history. Led by Heisman Trophy winner Joe Burrow, alongside elite wide receivers Justin Jefferson and Jamar Chase, that team became a symbol of Orgeron’s fiery leadership and connection to Louisiana’s identity. Even after his exit, Orgeron’s pride for LSU has never wavered. His comments this week reflect both his deep love for the program and his belief that the Tigers are at their best when united under one culture. As LSU begins its head coach search, Ed Orgeron is certainly a marquee name to keep an eye on.
