After a disappointing tenure, Brian Kelly is out at LSU, igniting one of college football’s most coveted coaching searches, with Lane Kiffin emerging as the clear front-runner among a field of established names and rising stars.
The Baton Rouge faithful are once again in the throes of a coaching search, a familiar yet perpetually dramatic chapter in the storied history of LSU football. The unexpected dismissal of Brian Kelly after four seasons has set off a ripple effect across the college football landscape, creating arguably the most prized vacancy in the sport. Kelly, who compiled a 34-14 record, began the 2025 season with lofty expectations, aiming for the College Football Playoff and a shot at the national championship. However, a collapse after a 4-0 start, including a decisive 49-25 loss to Texas A&M, proved too much for the university’s administrators, leading to his firing despite a staggering $53 million buyout, as reported by Yahoo Sports.
LSU’s history of hiring is marked by “big swings,” as evidenced by their pursuit of Lincoln Riley before ultimately landing Kelly from Notre Dame. The Tigers have consistently sought coaches with a track record of success at prominent programs, and this search is no different. The expectation is clear: the next head coach must not only rebuild but win immediately, contending for national championships season after season.
The Front-Runners: Established Names and SEC Experience
The early betting markets and expert speculation are heavily focused on several key figures, particularly those with proven success in the high-pressure environment of the Southeastern Conference.
Lane Kiffin: The Offensive Maestro
Lane Kiffin, currently the head coach at Ole Miss, is widely considered the leading candidate and a strong early favorite. Kiffin’s resume boasts an often brilliant offensive mind and a track record of success within the SEC, making him a “home-run hire” for LSU, according to Yahoo Sports. His Ole Miss Rebels are currently ranked in the top 10 and are seen as a dark horse contender for the national championship. Kiffin’s ability to consistently win at Ole Miss has fueled speculation that he would eventually move to a larger program like LSU. While a big buyout from Ole Miss could be a factor, the allure of LSU’s fertile recruiting grounds and passionate fanbase might be too strong to resist. Bookies.com listed Kiffin with +375 odds, while Kalshi percentages put him at 24% (+317).
Eli Drinkwitz: The SEC’s Rising Star
Eli Drinkwitz of Missouri emerges as a compelling option, often described as an “off-brand Kiffin” due to his similar offensive prowess and recent success. Drinkwitz has steadily transformed Missouri into an annual contender, securing bowl eligibility this season and leading his team to a Cotton Bowl win in 2023. With a 44-26 record (24-22 in SEC play) over six seasons, Drinkwitz demonstrates the coaching acumen and demeanor needed to thrive in the demanding SEC environment. Kalshi percentages placed his chances at 9% (+1011).
Intriguing Dark Horses and Familiar Faces
Beyond the immediate favorites, a diverse group of coaches—from former LSU heroes to rising Group of Five talents and Power Four mainstays—are being linked to the job, each bringing a unique profile.
Jon Sumrall: The Group of Five Sensation with SEC Ties
Jon Sumrall, the head coach at Tulane, represents an intriguing departure from LSU’s typical “power hires.” A former player at Kentucky and a multi-stop position coach in the SEC, Sumrall has quickly established himself as a rising star. His 15-6 record at Tulane, including an impressive 10-1 conference mark, showcases his ability to win and adapt to the NIL and transfer portal era. Despite losing key players, Sumrall has consistently brought in top-three recruiting and transfer classes in the American Athletic Conference, making him a potential “next Dan Lanning” type hire, as discussed by USA Today Sports. Kalshi gives Sumrall a 21% chance (+376 odds).
Joe Brady: The Nostalgic Choice
The name Joe Brady instantly conjures images of LSU’s historic 2019 national championship run, where he served as the offensive coordinator for perhaps the greatest offense in college football history. Currently the offensive coordinator for the Buffalo Bills, Brady brings innovative NFL experience. While his lack of head coaching experience is a significant hurdle, the emotional connection and his reputation as an offensive guru make him a fan favorite. However, his likely trajectory is toward an NFL head coaching position, complicating a return to the college ranks. Kalshi listed his odds at 9% (+1011).
Marcus Freeman: The ‘Kelly Disciple’ with National Title Experience
Notre Dame head coach Marcus Freeman is another name floating in the conversation. A former Kelly disciple, many college football experts believe Freeman’s cultural fit with LSU might be superior. He has achieved impressive results despite Notre Dame’s recruiting limitations, even leading the Fighting Irish to the national championship game in 2024. Despite reportedly turning down interest from Florida and Penn State, a move to LSU might be perceived as a lateral one for Freeman, who has no direct ties to the program and may be firmly entrenched in South Bend. Kalshi placed his chances at 12% (+733).
Other Notable Contenders
The breadth of LSU’s search extends to other capable coaches who could be considered for the role:
- James Franklin (Former Penn State Coach): Recently fired, Franklin is an established name. However, his reputation for falling short in big games could hinder his chances, according to Bookies.com.
- Jeff Brohm (Louisville HC): A strong coach on the rise, Brohm could be an attractive option who wouldn’t demand a massive buyout.
- Kenny Dillingham (Arizona State HC): Similar to Brohm, Dillingham is seen as an up-and-coming talent deserving of a major opportunity.
- Lincoln Riley (Southern California HC): Previously linked to LSU, Riley’s situation at USC could open the door for another big swing, though his current tenure has had mixed results.
- Dabo Swinney (Clemson HC): A decorated national champion, Swinney would be a shock hire, especially given Clemson’s recent struggles.
- Alex Golesh (South Florida HC): An offensive mind who has transformed USF, Golesh is a rising star from the Group of Five, but LSU may seek a more proven candidate.
- Bill O’Brien (Boston College HC) and Matt Rhule (Nebraska HC): Both appeared on Kalshi’s list with 6% chances, representing other established Power Four options.
The Path Forward for LSU
LSU’s coaching search will be one of the most closely watched events in college football. The university’s track record suggests they will prioritize a coach from the Power Four college ranks who can immediately elevate the program. The decision will hinge on balancing a candidate’s proven ability, cultural fit, long-term vision, and the financial implications of potential buyouts. For fans, the hope is that the next hire will bring stability and, most importantly, deliver the national championships that Brian Kelly’s tenure promised but ultimately couldn’t deliver.
