LSU football head coach Brian Kelly shares take on SEC scheduling format
LSU head coach Brian Kelly has been a vocal advocate for an expanded Southeastern Conference (SEC) football schedule, particularly supporting a nine-game conference slate that includes three permanent rivals. His stance underscores a commitment to elevating the competition level and maintaining traditional matchups that are central to the SEC’s identity.
Kelly’s enthusiasm for a nine-game conference schedule stems from his desire to engage with the best teams in college football. He has expressed a preference for playing against top-tier opponents like Alabama, Texas A&M, and Ole Miss annually, viewing these matchups as essential to the team’s competitive edge and fan engagement. In a discussion about scheduling, Kelly remarked, “I want to play the best. I came down here to the SEC because I wanted to play against Alabama. I want to play A&M. I want to play Auburn, the great teams” .
This perspective aligns with the SEC’s potential move to a 3-6 scheduling model, where each team would face three permanent opponents and six rotating conference foes. For LSU, this model would ensure annual games against Alabama, Ole Miss, and Texas A&M, preserving key rivalries and enhancing the overall competitiveness of the conference .
Kelly’s decision to join LSU was influenced by the opportunity to compete in the SEC, a conference renowned for its depth and high level of play. He has highlighted the significance of facing formidable opponents each week, stating, “I love Alabama. I love that kind of matchup. I mean, I was in Tiger Stadium for that game and I can tell you that there’s not a better atmosphere in college football than being there between two teams that are competing at that level” .
The addition of Oklahoma and Texas to the SEC further intensifies the competition, a development Kelly welcomes. He views the inclusion of these programs as a means to enhance the conference’s strength, noting, “The SEC is about the incredible depth of teams within this conference that are committed to playing championship football and to add two other great programs in Oklahoma and Texas only makes it even better” .
For Kelly, the structure of the SEC schedule is not merely a logistical concern but a strategic element that impacts team preparation and national perception. He has emphasized the importance of showcasing high-quality matchups to both fans and the College Football Playoff committee. By advocating for a nine-game conference schedule, Kelly aims to position LSU favorably in the eyes of the selection committee, ensuring that the team faces a rigorous slate that reflects its capabilities .
Brian Kelly’s support for an expanded SEC football schedule is rooted in a desire to maintain traditional rivalries, enhance the competitive landscape, and strategically position LSU for success in both conference and national contexts. His approach reflects a commitment to excellence and a forward-thinking perspective on the evolving dynamics of college football scheduling.
