Are expectations reasonable for 2025 LSU football?

As we look ahead to the 2025 LSU football season, expectations for the program are sky-high. Under head coach Brian Kelly, LSU has taken significant strides to return to its former glory, and with a strong recruiting class, a mix of veteran leadership, and a revamped coaching staff, the Tigers appear poised to be a contender in both the SEC and nationally. But are these expectations reasonable? Let’s dive into several factors—roster, coaching, competition, and recruiting—that will shape LSU’s outlook for the 2025 season and determine whether or not those high expectations are grounded in reality.

1. The Strength of Brian Kelly’s Coaching Staff

The first and most crucial factor in assessing LSU’s prospects for the 2025 season is the leadership provided by Brian Kelly and his coaching staff. Kelly came to Baton Rouge in 2022 with the task of rebuilding LSU into a consistent contender. In his first season, he exceeded expectations by leading the Tigers to an SEC West title and a victory over Alabama in what was widely considered one of the program’s most impressive wins in recent history.

Kelly’s reputation as a program builder is well-deserved. He spent over a decade at Notre Dame, establishing a culture of success and consistency, and he’s already making similar strides at LSU. With a focus on discipline, preparation, and player development, Kelly has the pedigree to continue shaping LSU into a top-tier program. His ability to recruit at a high level has already been evident, and with each passing year, his influence over the Tigers’ direction grows stronger.

In 2025, Kelly will have had more time to instill his system and develop the players he’s brought in. As a coach who has a proven track record of developing players into NFL prospects, his presence on the sidelines and his ability to make in-game adjustments should bode well for the Tigers’ future. The continuity within the coaching staff, which has remained relatively stable under Kelly, will also benefit the team. With veteran coaches like offensive coordinator Mike Denbrock and defensive coordinator Matt House, LSU’s coaching staff is well-equipped to compete at the highest levels of college football.

2. Quarterback Play and Offensive Development

The quarterback position will be one of the most talked-about aspects of LSU’s 2025 season. Jayden Daniels, who has been the starting quarterback for the Tigers since transferring in 2022, has proven to be a dynamic playmaker, earning accolades for his dual-threat abilities. By 2025, Daniels could either be in the NFL or playing in his final year at LSU, depending on how the next few seasons unfold.

If Daniels returns, his experience and leadership would be invaluable to LSU’s offense. He has the tools to lead an offense capable of challenging any defense in the country, with his arm strength, accuracy, and ability to extend plays with his legs. LSU’s offensive line, which has improved under Kelly’s tenure, will need to give Daniels protection, but if he has time in the pocket, he has the capability to pick apart defenses with his ability to push the ball downfield and read coverages.

However, if Daniels were to leave for the NFL draft, the question becomes: who steps in as the next LSU quarterback? LSU’s 2025 recruiting class includes highly rated quarterback Ricky Collins Jr., a dual-threat player who has shown excellent potential as both a passer and a runner. Collins has the physical tools to lead LSU’s offense but will need time to develop and adjust to the speed of college football. If he were to take over as a freshman, there would likely be growing pains, but his ceiling is high.

Regardless of who is under center in 2025, the offensive game plan will likely revolve around a balanced attack, with an emphasis on getting the ball into the hands of playmakers in space. Offensive coordinator Mike Denbrock has shown a preference for utilizing both the passing and running games effectively, and the key will be to develop a game plan that minimizes turnovers while maximizing explosive plays.

3. Talent Across the Roster

One of the biggest strengths of LSU heading into the 2025 season is the sheer talent across the roster. The Tigers are poised to be stacked on both sides of the ball, with a deep roster of playmakers who can make a significant impact in the SEC.

Offensive Skill Players:

LSU has a history of producing elite wide receivers, and the 2025 roster will be no different. Players like Malik Nabers and Kyren Lacy, who are already making waves in their early seasons with the Tigers, could be poised for breakout campaigns in 2025. The addition of high-level recruits, including highly regarded incoming freshmen, will only add depth to the position. The development of these wideouts will be critical to LSU’s passing attack.

In the backfield, the Tigers have a potent mix of running backs who can do it all. With Trey Holly, a highly touted 2025 running back, entering the fold alongside returning players like Josh Williams and Armoni Goodwin, LSU should have a balanced and dangerous ground game. The running back rotation will be crucial for keeping opposing defenses on their heels, and the Tigers will need to exploit matchups in the running game to open up the passing attack.

Offensive Line:

The offensive line will be one of the most important areas to watch in 2025. LSU’s offensive line has made significant improvements over the past few years, but they must continue to grow in both pass protection and run blocking. With talent like Emory Jones and Cam Wire, the Tigers have players capable of anchoring the offensive line, but consistent development is key. If the line holds up, LSU’s offense will have a chance to execute at a high level.

Defensive Playmakers:

On defense, LSU is loaded with talent, particularly in the secondary and at linebacker. Players like Harold Perkins Jr., who quickly became one of the top defensive players in the SEC, are game-changers who can disrupt offenses and create turnovers. LSU’s defensive line has depth as well, with players like Maason Smith and Mekhi Wingo anchoring the front. With defensive coordinator Matt House’s aggressive scheme, LSU’s defense will be able to keep pressure on opposing offenses and force them into mistakes.

The secondary, which has struggled at times in recent years, could be one of the strengths of LSU’s defense in 2025. With the addition of top-tier recruits like Javien Toviano and returning players like Greg Brooks Jr. and Major Burns, LSU should have a strong group of defensive backs capable of locking down receivers. This will be critical in the pass-heavy SEC, where teams like Alabama, Ole Miss, and Tennessee will test the Tigers’ coverage abilities.

4. SEC Competition and Scheduling Challenges

One of the biggest challenges for LSU in 2025 will be the fierce competition within the SEC. The Tigers play in the most competitive conference in college football, and they will face numerous formidable teams week in and week out.

SEC West:

The SEC West is historically one of the most competitive divisions in college football. Alabama, under Nick Saban, is always a tough opponent, and while the Crimson Tide has undergone some changes in recent years, they remain a national title contender. Ole Miss, with Lane Kiffin, has become a dangerous offensive juggernaut, and Arkansas, Texas A&M, and Mississippi State are all teams capable of pulling off an upset on any given day.

The challenge for LSU is to not only compete with these teams but to find a way to beat them consistently. LSU’s success in 2025 will hinge on winning key games against divisional rivals like Alabama, Ole Miss, and Texas A&M. These games are often pivotal in determining the SEC West champion and a potential playoff berth.

SEC East:

On the other side of the conference, teams like Georgia, Tennessee, and Florida are always competitive. Georgia, in particular, has emerged as one of the top programs in the nation under Kirby Smart, and the Bulldogs will likely be a major obstacle for LSU if they meet in a potential SEC Championship game. Tennessee, with its high-powered offense, also presents a matchup problem for LSU, especially in a shootout scenario.

5. Recruiting and Depth for the Future

One of the biggest reasons for optimism surrounding LSU football in 2025 is the program’s recruiting success. Under Brian Kelly, LSU has been able to secure some of the best recruiting classes in the country, including a highly rated 2025 class. The Tigers have filled key gaps across the roster, with talented young players coming in at nearly every position.

In addition to the highly ranked recruits, LSU’s depth has improved significantly. The Tigers have built a roster capable of competing for championships, and the 2025 class will further bolster the team’s strength. With several elite prospects already committed and more expected to join, LSU will have the talent and depth to not only compete in the SEC but also on the national stage.