Coach O Returns to LSU

In case you missed it, Ed Orgeron is rejoining the LSU Tigers. The Bayou Bengals have brought him on board to bolster the staff of new head coach Lane Kiffin. Honestly, it’s hard to see a downside.

From a relationship angle, this decision makes a lot of sense. Reports indicate that Orgeron and Kiffin have known each other for over 20 years, dating back to their time together on Pete Carroll’s staff at USC.

Orgeron had publicly supported Kiffin after the latter’s comments about Ole Miss in Vanity Fair earlier this month. This seemed natural considering their friendship and shared history, but it feels even more relevant given that Orgeron is likely to take a position on Kiffin’s staff soon.

Looking at it strictly from a football perspective, the partnership seems even more advantageous. LSU has lost some of its local edge during Brian Kelly’s tenure, which might not have been intentional but reflected having an “outsider” as head coach. The contrast between Kelly and Orgeron is significant.

LSU’s athletic director, Virge Ausberry, mentioned that Kelly never quite fit the culture of the Tigers, which is crucial in college football, particularly at a unique program like LSU. Ausberry has praised Kiffin’s ability to connect with local boosters, fans, and high school athletes. Bringing in Orgeron appears to be a strategic move.

Orgeron’s recruitment success has been noteworthy; he’s recognized as a top recruiter in college football, bolstered by his strong ties to Louisiana. Adding him to Kiffin’s coaching staff helps address a major gap from Kelly’s era, and his impact should be felt almost immediately.

One notable recruit is five-star wide receiver Easton Royal. Hailing from Texas but with roots in New Orleans, Royal has long been associated with LSU. His eventual commitment seemed likely, but Orgeron’s return could hasten that process. It would be surprising if Royal didn’t land with LSU’s 2027 freshman class, given Louisiana’s reputation as a hotbed for high school talent.

While the state may not rival Texas, Florida, or California in size or numbers, it has enough talent to allow LSU to attract an elite recruiting class without straying far from home. The rest of the SEC is likely feeling the pressure now that Kiffin has gained a key ally in Orgeron.

If you thought LSU was a formidable contender before, adding Orgeron might just be Kiffin’s way of completing his own version of a master plan. SEC fans, brace yourselves!