When governors make statements, state universities take notice.
Louisiana State University (LSU) has ended its relationship with athletic director Scott Woodward just one day after Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry publicly criticized him, specifically addressing Woodward’s previous poor coaching decisions and stating that he wouldn’t take part in selecting LSU’s next head coach.
On Sunday, Woodward dismissed head coach Brian Kelly, who he had brought on board in December 2021 to turn around the program following a disappointing 49-25 defeat against Texas A&M. Landry didn’t overlook the Texas A&M situation; during a statement on Wednesday, he reminded everyone that Woodward had hired Jimbo Fisher while he was the athletic director there. Landry highlighted that when A&M let Fisher go, it faced a massive $76 million buyout. He pointed out that LSU was similarly positioned with Brian Kelly, necessitating a large payout of over $50 million for his departure.
This account has some accuracy.
Woodward did hire Fisher from Florida State University, securing him with a 10-year, $75 million contract at A&M. Nonetheless, it was Ross Bjork, who succeeded Woodward at A&M, that granted Fisher a $90 million extension, resulting in the significant financial obligation. Regardless, the governor’s severe remarks impacted Woodward’s standing.
“I want to express gratitude to Mr. Scott for his service as athletic director over the last six years,” stated Scott Ballard, Chairman of the LSU Board of Supervisors. “He has achieved much at LSU, and we wish him success in his future pursuits. Our priority now is to advance the athletic department and position LSU for optimal success.”
In a letter addressed to the LSU community, Woodward conveyed his departure was “with a heavy heart, but also with my typical optimism.”
“While some may analyze or provide commentary on my six-year tenure and decisions as Director of Athletics, I will refrain from doing so,” Woodward mentioned in the letter. “Instead, I will focus on the immense joy that LSU Athletics brings to the state’s residents and the Baton Rouge area. I will treasure the wonderful relationships I have formed within the university and beyond its campus. I will fondly recall the national and SEC championships that brought happiness to our student-athletes, coaches, staff, campus community, and our incredible fans.”
“Our university will always hold a special place in my heart, and you can never be too far from LSU,” he added.
Woodward is anticipated to receive more than $6 million still due on his contract.
