A renowned college football writer predicts that LSU football will in the playoffs in 2025.

The college football landscape is constantly evolving, with new powerhouses emerging, established programs reasserting their dominance, and surprises popping up each season. One such program that has long been at the heart of the sport’s elite is LSU—Louisiana State University—a team known for its rich history, passionate fanbase, and, of course, championship pedigree. Following an up-and-down stretch in recent years, the LSU Tigers are once again showing signs of life under head coach Brian Kelly, and many experts believe the program is poised to make a serious run at the College Football Playoff (CFP) in 2025.

One of the most intriguing developments in the buildup to the 2025 season is a bold prediction made by a renowned college football writer: LSU will be a playoff team in 2025. This assertion is particularly striking given the uncertainty that surrounds the college football world, especially with the shift to a 12-team playoff format and the increasing competition from other national powers. But what makes this prediction credible? What factors are in play that could see LSU rise to the level necessary to not only secure a playoff berth but contend for a national title?

In this article, we’ll break down the key reasons why LSU, with its combination of elite talent, strong coaching, and historical pedigree, could very well be in the playoff picture by the 2025 season. From recruiting to player development to the landscape of college football itself, we’ll examine why a playoff appearance is within reach for the Tigers—and why the 2025 season might just be the year it happens.

1. The Brian Kelly Factor: Establishing a Winning Culture

When Brian Kelly was hired as head coach in 2022, many questioned the move. After all, LSU had a history of hiring big-name coaches, and Kelly was seen as somewhat of a departure from that tradition. However, Kelly quickly proved his worth by leading the Tigers to a 10-win season in his first year, including an SEC West title and a thrilling victory in the Citrus Bowl over Purdue. His ability to adapt to SEC football, recruit at an elite level, and build a disciplined, cohesive team marked a clear turning point for the program.

By 2025, Kelly will have had ample time to install his system and fully implement his vision. His experience at Notre Dame, where he turned a perennial contender into a national power, will be invaluable in guiding LSU back to its rightful place among college football’s elite. Kelly’s ability to manage a program from top to bottom, emphasizing both recruiting and player development, has the potential to turn LSU into a national title contender once again.

Kelly’s track record speaks for itself. Over 30 seasons as a head coach, he has led teams to 12 bowl games and had sustained success, especially in the Big Ten and later in the SEC. His keen understanding of the Xs and Os, combined with his leadership and culture-building prowess, sets him up for a successful tenure at LSU. By 2025, LSU will be operating as a well-oiled machine—one with the depth, structure, and discipline necessary to compete at the highest level.

2. Elite Recruiting Classes: A Talent Pipeline Ready for 2025

No college football program can hope to make the College Football Playoff without a steady stream of top-tier talent, and LSU’s recruiting under Brian Kelly has been nothing short of spectacular. Since his arrival in Baton Rouge, Kelly has brought in multiple highly ranked recruiting classes, solidifying the Tigers’ standing as one of the most talent-rich programs in the country. In fact, recruiting rankings consistently have LSU near the top of the SEC and national recruiting landscapes, and by 2025, those classes will be entering their prime.

The 2023 and 2024 recruiting classes were loaded with high-profile talent, particularly on both sides of the ball. Key positions like quarterback, defensive line, wide receiver, and the secondary were heavily addressed, and Kelly’s ability to attract elite prospects to Baton Rouge has put LSU in prime position to reload and replenish its depth chart. Whether it’s securing blue-chip prospects in Louisiana—long a hotbed of talent—or attracting top recruits from other states, LSU’s recruiting pipeline is thriving.

The 2025 season will be the culmination of the 2023 and 2024 classes maturing into their roles. Quarterback play, which has often been a source of frustration for LSU in recent years, is expected to be a major strength for the Tigers in 2025, thanks to the development of highly touted recruits and the continued maturation of the position. If LSU can land a game-changing quarterback, along with a top-tier offensive line and skill position players, the offense will have the firepower needed to compete with the nation’s best.

On defense, LSU has consistently produced NFL-caliber talent, and with the infusion of new blood from the recruiting trail, the Tigers’ defense is poised to continue its dominance. The front seven is stacked with future pros, and the secondary, led by some of the top cornerback prospects in the nation, will be well-equipped to challenge the best offenses in the SEC.

3. Returning Star Power: Playmakers at Every Level

In addition to the influx of talent, LSU will be returning several key players who will play pivotal roles in the 2025 season. These returning stars, combined with the fresh wave of recruits, will give the Tigers the depth and experience needed to navigate a challenging SEC schedule and make a run at the College Football Playoff.

Quarterback Play: A Potential Game-Changer

While LSU has been searching for consistency at quarterback in recent years, the 2025 season could mark a turning point for the position. The Tigers have one of the most talented quarterback rooms in the country, and by 2025, a clear leader will emerge. Whether it’s a seasoned veteran or a young player who takes the reins, LSU will have a capable, dynamic quarterback who can elevate the offense.

Quarterback play is often the defining factor in playoff teams, and LSU’s success will be tied to the development of its signal caller. If the Tigers can find a leader who can operate efficiently in the high-pressure environment of the SEC, LSU will be a contender.

Running Back: A Three-Headed Monster

LSU has a storied history of producing elite running backs, and the 2025 season will likely continue that tradition. The Tigers are expected to have one of the deepest and most talented backfields in the country. Whether it’s a returning star or a standout from the incoming recruiting class, LSU will be able to establish a formidable running game that can control the clock, wear down opposing defenses, and provide balance to the offense.

Defensive Line: The Heart of LSU’s Defense

LSU’s defense has always been built on a strong, aggressive front seven, and the 2025 season should be no different. With elite edge rushers and a deep rotation of defensive linemen, LSU will have the tools to pressure opposing quarterbacks and stop the run. The depth and talent on the defensive line will allow LSU to compete with some of the SEC’s best offenses, and with Brian Kelly’s emphasis on building a stout defense, the Tigers should be able to match up well with teams like Alabama, Georgia, and Florida.

Secondary: Lockdown Coverage

LSU’s secondary has long been one of the most respected in college football, and by 2025, it could be one of the best in the country. With talented corners and safeties, the Tigers will be able to challenge opposing receivers and limit big plays. The ability to lock down receivers in a pass-happy SEC will be key to LSU’s success, and with the incoming class of recruits, this unit is poised to be one of the team’s strengths.

4. The SEC Landscape: Navigating a New Era

One of the biggest factors that could propel LSU into the College Football Playoff in 2025 is the changing landscape of the SEC. With the expansion of the conference to include teams like Oklahoma and Texas, the SEC’s overall strength will be even more pronounced. However, this expansion could work in LSU’s favor, as it will allow the Tigers to face a wider range of competition while also benefitting from the increased number of high-quality wins on their schedule.

Additionally, LSU’s ability to navigate a more competitive SEC West will test the team’s mettle but also provide the program with an opportunity to prove its worth on a national stage. Securing a playoff berth in a more challenging SEC environment would be a statement in itself and would add significant weight to LSU’s playoff resume.

SEC Championship and Playoff Potential

The SEC Championship will be the ultimate hurdle for LSU in 2025. With perennial powers like Alabama, Georgia, and now Texas and Oklahoma entering the fold, the Tigers will face a gauntlet of top-tier teams. However, if LSU can manage to secure a spot in the SEC Championship game—especially if they have just one loss in the regular season—they will likely be a strong candidate for a playoff spot.

Winning the SEC would give LSU an automatic berth in the playoff, but even a near-miss would give the Tigers a compelling case, particularly if they have a strong résumé with several quality wins against ranked teams.

5. The Case for LSU’s Playoff Push in 2025

LSU’s blend of elite talent, experienced coaching, returning stars, and a favorable recruiting pipeline gives the program every opportunity to make a serious run at the College Football Playoff in 2025. Brian Kelly’s proven track record, combined with LSU’s returning playmakers and the influx of young talent, sets the stage for a program ready to compete for a national title once again.

The key for LSU will be continued development, particularly at the quarterback position and on defense. If the Tigers can find

consistency and build momentum throughout the season, a playoff appearance—and possibly even a national championship run—could be well within their reach.

For fans of LSU football, the 2025 season is shaping up to be one of the most exciting and promising in recent memory. With a program on the rise, a dynamic coaching staff, and a roster stacked with talent, the Tigers are poised to return to the national stage—and this time, they may just make it all the way to the College Football Playoff.