Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry to Block LSU AD’s Football Coach Selection

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Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry to Block LSU AD’s Football Coach Selection

Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry is taking a firm stance regarding LSU’s football coaching situation. He intends to obstruct Athletic Director Scott Woodward’s ability to hire the next head coach for the Tigers. During a press conference in Baton Rouge, Landry voiced his feelings bluntly, stating, “Hell, I’ll let Donald Trump select him before I let him do it.”

Background on Coach Brian Kelly’s Firing

Woodward recently announced the termination of coach Brian Kelly after just four seasons. Kelly was originally hired following the 2021 season, signing a lucrative contract valued at $100 million over ten years. His firing followed a disappointing season marked by an eight-game tenure, culminating in a 49-25 defeat to Texas A&M.

Despite LSU still owing Kelly over $52 million through 2031, Landry confirmed he was engaged in discussions leading to Kelly’s dismissal. He emphasized that he hosted a meeting to explore the financial implications of firing a coach under a significant contract.

Financial Implications

Kelly’s buyout is one of the largest in college sports history.
LSU’s athletic department has historically funded itself without public money.
Private donors have pledged support to cover Kelly’s buyout costs.

Landry remarked, “If big billionaires want to spend all that kind of money, no problem,” adding that discussions about the financial burden of the buyout must be clear and transparent. His primary concern is taxpayer accountability.

Impacts on the Coaching Search

Following Kelly’s departure, running backs coach Frank Wilson has been appointed as the interim head coach. LSU’s Board of Supervisors is set to establish a search committee to find a new coach, under Landry’s assurance that the process will emphasize performance-based incentives over guarantees in contracts.

Landry noted, “I’m tired of rewarding failure in this country and then leaving the taxpayers to foot the bill.” His administration has already seen appointments of nine board members, with more to come, which will influence hiring decisions.

Critique of Sports Agents

Governor Landry has also directed criticism towards sports agents involved in college athletics. He suggested that the conduct of these agents is troubling, noting that athletes like Kelly and former Texas A&M coach Jimbo Fisher have representation that raises ethical concerns. Landry called for the NCAA to implement stricter regulations governing college sports.