LSU bringing former championship winning head coach back to program
The college football offseason has delivered no shortage of twists and turns. From eligibility lawsuits and playoff expansion to sweeping rule changes, the sport has entered one of its most unpredictable eras in recent memory. Now, LSU is bringing a headline-grabbing figure back into the fold.
Reports surfaced Wednesday night that LSU head coach Lane Kiffin brought legendary former coach Ed Orgeron to his staff. “Coach O” will reportedly serve as a special assistant focused on recruiting and defense. Nearly five years after LSU dismissed him as head coach, Orgeron is set to return to Baton Rouge.
MORE: Brendan Sorsby gambling case is a symptom of NCAA’s NIL failures The decision to bring back Orgeron could prove significant in college football’s rapidly changing landscape. Few coaches can match his recruiting ability. While Orgeron was never known as a schematic mastermind, he helped recruit elite talent such as Ja’Marr Chase and Joe Burrow during his time at LSU.
Nov 13, 2021; Baton Rouge, Louisiana, USA; LSU Tigers head coach Ed Orgeron reacts after a loss to the Arkansas Razorbacks at Tiger Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images The move could also shift some attention away from Kiffin. He has remained a constant topic of discussion since leaving Ole Miss for LSU.
The headlines surrounding Kiffin have not been egregious. However, the steady stream of criticism and negative publicity has created distractions around the program. Orgeron, of course, became the unlikely coach who guided LSU to its most recent national championship.