Where Did LSU Football Place in the Way-Too-Early 2025 College Football Rankings?
As the dust settles on the 2024 college football season, attention begins to turn toward the future, with analysts, coaches, and fans alike eagerly anticipating what the next season will bring. One of the first indicators of the season’s potential is the “Way-Too-Early” rankings that flood the college football landscape each year. These rankings, while speculative, serve as a snapshot of expectations and predictions based on returning players, recruiting classes, and team trajectories.
For LSU Football, a program with a rich history of success and a future brimming with promise, the 2025 “Way-Too-Early” College Football Rankings serve as both an opportunity to reflect on past success and to set the stage for what promises to be another competitive campaign in the Southeastern Conference (SEC).
In this article, we will take an in-depth look at where LSU football placed in the Way-Too-Early 2025 College Football Rankings, what factors contributed to their ranking, and what this means for the program moving forward.
1. LSU Football in the Way-Too-Early 2025 Rankings
As of the latest Way-Too-Early rankings for the 2025 college football season, LSU placed in the top 10 of several major rankings, a testament to the Tigers’ continued strength and upward trajectory. Despite some hiccups during the 2024 season, LSU remains a powerhouse in college football, thanks to strong recruiting efforts, a talented roster, and a dynamic coaching staff.
LSU’s exact placement in various rankings varies slightly, but many experts have the Tigers ranked in the range of No. 7 to No. 9 in the nation, reflecting the optimism surrounding the program as it heads into the next season. This position places LSU firmly in the conversation as one of the top contenders in the SEC and nationally, but it also highlights the competitive nature of the conference, where many teams are poised to make a push for the College Football Playoff (CFP).
2. Why the Top-10 Ranking is Justified
Several key factors contribute to LSU’s solid position in the Way-Too-Early rankings, ranging from the return of star players to the ongoing improvements made by head coach Brian Kelly’s program. Let’s break down these factors and explore why LSU remains a top contender despite the challenges they faced in the 2024 season.
2.1. Strong Recruiting Classes Under Brian Kelly
One of the primary reasons for LSU’s continued prominence in these rankings is the exceptional recruiting success that head coach Brian Kelly has achieved since arriving in Baton Rouge. Kelly, known for his previous success at Notre Dame, has brought an elite level of talent to LSU, both through high school recruits and the transfer portal.
The 2024 recruiting class was one of the best in the country, highlighted by several five-star and four-star recruits who are expected to make immediate contributions. The Tigers have recruited well at key positions, particularly along the offensive and defensive lines, which are the cornerstones of LSU’s success. With young talent continuing to emerge, LSU is well-positioned to stay competitive in the SEC and nationally.
In addition to the high school recruits, LSU has been active in the transfer portal, securing players who can make an immediate impact. With the ever-changing landscape of college football, having a strong portal strategy has become essential, and LSU’s ability to attract top talent from the portal positions them well for the 2025 season.
2.2. The Return of Key Players
LSU enters the 2025 season with a number of key players returning who are expected to play major roles. Perhaps the most important returnee is quarterback Jayden Daniels, who has become one of the most dynamic quarterbacks in the SEC. Daniels, who is known for his dual-threat ability, has shown remarkable growth during his time at LSU, and his decision to return for his senior season provides the Tigers with a steady leader under center.
Daniels’ return, coupled with the emergence of other offensive playmakers such as wide receiver Malik Nabers and running back John Emery, gives LSU one of the most potent offenses in the SEC. The Tigers’ offense was explosive at times in 2024, and with an experienced signal-caller like Daniels leading the way, LSU has the potential to put up big numbers in 2025.
On defense, LSU has several key returnees who will anchor what is expected to be one of the best defensive units in the conference. Players like linebacker Harold Perkins Jr., a future first-round NFL draft pick, and defensive lineman Mekhi Wingo give LSU the personnel needed to compete at the highest level. The Tigers’ defense was solid in 2024 but has the potential to be even better in 2025, with these returners providing stability and leadership on that side of the ball.
2.3. Coaching Stability and Strategy Under Brian Kelly
Another significant factor contributing to LSU’s high ranking is the stability provided by head coach Brian Kelly. Despite some early growing pains in his first season at LSU, Kelly quickly established his system and built a program that competes at a high level year after year. His ability to adapt to the SEC and recruit top-tier talent has proven that he can handle the pressures of coaching in one of the most competitive conferences in college football.
Kelly’s experience and success at Notre Dame were major selling points when LSU hired him, and so far, he has lived up to the expectations. He is known for his disciplined coaching style and focus on player development, both of which will be critical as LSU strives to compete for SEC championships and beyond in 2025. Kelly’s familiarity with the rigors of a long college football season and his attention to detail are key reasons for LSU’s continued success and their optimistic outlook heading into 2025.
2.4. The Competitive Landscape of the SEC
While LSU is undoubtedly a top contender, it is important to acknowledge the extremely competitive nature of the SEC, where programs like Georgia, Alabama, and Tennessee continue to dominate. LSU will face stiff competition in their own conference, which could impact their overall standing in the rankings. However, LSU’s ranking in the Way-Too-Early 2025 Poll reflects their ability to compete with these other powerhouse programs and their status as a legitimate contender for an SEC title.
The SEC is a brutal conference, and while LSU has the talent to compete with the best, their path to success will not be easy. Games against rival programs such as Alabama, Ole Miss, and Auburn will be critical in determining LSU’s place in the standings. With several teams in the conference vying for CFP spots, the Tigers will need to perform at a high level throughout the season to secure a spot in the playoff conversation.
3. What LSU Needs to Improve for 2025
While LSU is certainly positioned well for the 2025 season, there are a few areas where the program will need to improve if they want to secure a spot in the College Football Playoff and potentially compete for a national championship.
3.1. Defensive Consistency
While LSU boasts talent on the defensive side of the ball, particularly with standouts like Perkins and Wingo, the Tigers have occasionally struggled with consistency on defense. In 2024, LSU’s defense was prone to giving up big plays at inopportune times, which cost them in key matchups. For LSU to remain a top contender, they will need to tighten up their defense, improve their pass coverage, and prevent explosive plays that can swing the momentum of games.
The Tigers will also need to continue developing depth on defense, particularly in the secondary. If LSU can consistently stop the run, limit big plays, and force turnovers, they will have the recipe for success on that side of the ball.
3.2. Offensive Line Play
Although LSU boasts a potent offense, the offensive line has been a point of concern in recent years. Jayden Daniels is a dynamic quarterback, but he will need solid protection to maximize his potential and make plays downfield. The offensive line will need to improve its consistency in both pass protection and run blocking to ensure that LSU’s offense can function at a high level throughout the season.
