Paul Finebaum Believes LSU Football is in ‘Great Shape’ Heading Into 2025 Season

Paul Finebaum, a prominent college football analyst and commentator, has recently expressed confidence in LSU football’s prospects for the 2025 season, stating that the Tigers are in “great shape” heading into the upcoming year. This optimism stems from several key factors, including strong recruiting classes, coaching stability, recent on-field success, and the program’s strategic vision under head coach Brian Kelly. As LSU continues to build on its resurgence and position itself as a perennial contender in the SEC, Finebaum’s assessment underscores the national perception of LSU’s bright future. In this analysis, we explore the reasons behind his optimism, the current state of LSU football, and what fans and analysts can expect from the Tigers in 2025.

**1. Rebuilding and Program Momentum**

Since Brian Kelly’s arrival in 2022, LSU has experienced a renaissance, culminating in a Big Ten Championship appearance and a New Year’s Six bowl victory in 2023. Kelly’s emphasis on discipline, recruiting excellence, and a strategic, adaptable offense has laid a solid foundation. The 2024 recruiting cycle further solidified LSU’s standing, bringing in a top-ranked class that includes several highly-touted prospects on both sides of the ball. This influx of talent is critical for sustaining success and competing at the highest level, especially within the SEC’s brutal schedule.

Finebaum points out that the program’s stability and focus on development are crucial. The coaching staff’s ability to develop players, especially young talent, has improved markedly, giving LSU a roster capable of competing with traditional powerhouses like Alabama, Georgia, and Ohio State. The Tigers’ recent success in recruiting shows a program in growth mode, which bodes well for 2025.

**2. Defensive and Offensive Improvements**

One of LSU’s challenges in recent years has been consistency on defense. However, under Kelly’s leadership, the Tigers have prioritized defensive development, bringing in experienced coordinators and recruiting defensive stalwarts. The 2024 season saw signs of this progress, with LSU’s defense becoming more disciplined and effective against top offenses. Finebaum believes that with another year of development, LSU’s defense will be elite in 2025.

Offensively, LSU has become more versatile and explosive. Kelly’s offense emphasizes a balanced attack, incorporating both the run and pass to keep defenses guessing. The quarterback position, which has seen some flux, is expected to stabilize with a talented, experienced signal-caller returning or emerging from the competition. The offensive line and skill position players are also expected to be more cohesive and productive, enabling LSU to put up big numbers and control games.

**3. Recruiting and Player Development**

Finebaum highlights LSU’s continued success in recruiting elite talent. The program’s ability to attract five-star athletes and top-tier prospects from across the nation is a critical factor. LSU’s rich football tradition, combined with Kelly’s reputation for player development, makes it an attractive destination for recruits seeking a pathway to the NFL and national prominence.

Additionally, LSU’s focus on player development has paid dividends. Many of their recent recruits and transfers have blossomed into NFL-caliber players. This pipeline of talented athletes, coupled with a coaching staff dedicated to refining their skills, positions LSU for sustained success in 2025.

**4. The SEC Landscape and LSU’s Position**

Finebaum notes that LSU is entering 2025 in an advantageous position within the SEC. The conference continues to be the toughest in college football, but LSU’s recent trajectory and recruiting success have positioned them as a legitimate contender. The Tigers are no longer a team relying on flashes of brilliance but are building a consistent, competitive program.

The addition of new rivalries and the conference’s expanded schedule will challenge LSU, but the program’s depth and talent pool are expected to hold up. Finebaum emphasizes that LSU’s ability to compete in a league with powerhouse programs like Georgia, Alabama, and Tennessee will be a defining factor in their success.

**5. Coaching Staff Stability and Future Outlook**

Another reason for Finebaum’s optimism is the stability and competence of LSU’s coaching staff. Kelly’s leadership has stabilized the program after years of coaching upheaval. His focus on culture, discipline, and strategic game planning has fostered a winning environment.

Looking ahead, LSU’s coaching staff is expected to continue evolving, with young assistants gaining experience and top coordinators maintaining consistency. This stability will be crucial in navigating the SEC schedule and preparing for postseason play.

**6. Challenges and Areas for Improvement**

While Finebaum remains optimistic, he also acknowledges potential challenges for LSU. The SEC’s competitiveness means LSU must stay healthy, avoid injuries, and continue developing players. Maintaining recruiting momentum amid national competition is also vital.

Furthermore, LSU’s ability to manage the growing expectations from fans and media will be tested. The Tigers have become a national brand, and sustaining excellence requires continual investment, innovation, and adaptation.

**7. Fan and Alumni Expectations**

Finally, Finebaum points out that LSU’s fan base and alumni are hungry for continued success. The program’s history of national championships and SEC dominance fuels high expectations. The 2025 season is viewed as an opportunity for LSU to reinforce its position among college football’s elite, potentially competing for a playoff spot and a shot at another national title.

Paul Finebaum’s belief that LSU football is in “great shape” heading into 2025 reflects a confluence of factors: a strong recruiting class, strategic coaching, recent on-field success, and the program’s upward trajectory within the SEC. With a talented roster, a proven coaching staff, and a competitive edge, LSU appears poised to contend at the highest level next season. While challenges remain, particularly in maintaining consistency against the SEC’s best, the foundation is solid. For LSU fans and college football enthusiasts, the outlook for 2025 is promising, and Finebaum’s optimism underscores LSU’s emergence as a national power once again. As the Tigers prepare for another challenging season, expectations are high, and the program’s bright future seems assured.