LSU’s Coaching Search Takes a Turn
Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry announced on Wednesday that Scott Woodward, the athletic director at LSU, will no longer have authority in the search for the next head football coach.
This decision comes after LSU decided to part ways with Brian Kelly earlier this week. Woodward made the announcement on Sunday, following a disappointing 49-25 loss to Texas A&M.
Kelly, who left Notre Dame after the 2021 season, ended up coaching less than four full seasons at LSU.
Woodward expressed his frustration, saying, “We expected him to achieve multiple SEC and national championships while here. Ultimately, we didn’t reach the level of success LSU demands. After the game last night, I opted to make a change.”
Currently, LSU is working out the details of Kelly’s $54 million buyout, a figure that has drawn criticism from Landry.
Landry commented during a press conference, “This is not a failed path. The contract that put us in this situation cost Texas A&M $77 million. Now we’re facing a $53 million debt. That won’t happen again.”
The $77 million refers to the contract of former Texas A&M coach Jimbo Fisher, which Woodward negotiated. Reports suggest that private donors may help cover some of Kelly’s buyout costs, and this could change if Kelly takes another coaching position.
Since 2019, Woodward has held the role of LSU’s athletic director. The university previously paid Ed Orgeron over $17 million in buyout money after his dismissal in 2021.
Landry stated, “Scott Woodward has not chosen the next coach. I would let you know that Donald Trump would pick him before I forced Woodward to do it.”
He further added that a committee from the Board of Supervisors will be established to assist in finding a new coach, who will be either a board member or someone appointed by the governor.
Fox News Digital reached out to LSU’s athletic department for a comment but did not receive an immediate response.
Landry reassured that the Tigers’ next head coach will be “adequately compensated,” but he emphasized the need for clear standards in financial transactions.
“I’m tired of rewarding failure,” he said. On another note, he mentioned that he played a role in the negotiations regarding Kelly’s firing, particularly concerning the financial implications for taxpayers.
Despite LSU’s attempts to invest more in its transfer portal, Kelly struggled to meet the expectations of competing for a national championship.
LSU is currently on a bye week, with their next game against Alabama set for November 8.
