After a “great” offseason, Paul Finebaum thinks Brain Kelly could improve LSU.

In college football, the offseason often serves as a precursor to a team’s success or failure in the coming season. The decisions made by coaches, players, and staff during this time can shape the trajectory of a program for years to come. One such program that has seen significant changes during the 2024 offseason is LSU, where head coach Brian Kelly has focused on improving every aspect of the team. As a result, Paul Finebaum, a prominent college football analyst, has shifted his stance, suggesting that Kelly could take LSU to new heights in 2025.

Finebaum, who has been known for his candid opinions on college football, has spent a significant amount of time analyzing LSU’s trajectory under Kelly. Originally skeptical about Kelly’s long-term success in Baton Rouge, Finebaum’s opinion has evolved over the past year, largely due to Kelly’s actions during the 2024 offseason. Through strategic recruiting, player retention, and coaching changes, Kelly has put LSU in a position to make a serious run for SEC supremacy in 2025.

Brian Kelly’s Rebuilding Efforts at LSU

When Brian Kelly arrived at LSU in 2022, he inherited a program that was struggling to find consistency. While LSU had a rich history of success under previous coaches like Nick Saban and Les Miles, the program had hit a rough patch. Ed Orgeron’s sudden departure after a national championship in 2019 left the program in turmoil, and Kelly was tasked with restoring LSU to its former glory. Kelly, who had a highly successful tenure at Notre Dame, was seen as a proven coach capable of rebuilding a program in need of stability.

In his first season with LSU, Kelly showed promise, leading the Tigers to an 11-2 record. However, his team fell short in the SEC Championship Game against Georgia, and their College Football Playoff hopes were dashed. Still, there was a sense that Kelly was building something solid for the future. The 2024 offseason was critical, not just in terms of recruiting, but also in fostering team chemistry, player development, and making necessary adjustments to the coaching staff.

The 2024 Offseason: Key Moves and Decisions

The 2024 offseason marked a significant turning point for Kelly and LSU. Finebaum has been outspoken about the “great” moves Kelly made, believing that they positioned LSU for a stronger 2025 campaign. These moves were multifaceted, ranging from effective recruiting to player retention and reshaping the coaching staff. Let’s take a closer look at some of the key decisions made by Brian Kelly in the offseason.

Recruiting Success and Transfer Portal Impact

One of the most important aspects of LSU’s offseason was its recruiting efforts. Kelly’s ability to target key players in both high school recruiting and the transfer portal has played a pivotal role in shaping the future of the program. In particular, Kelly utilized the transfer portal, a tool that has become increasingly important in college football in recent years, to fill critical gaps on the roster.

For example, LSU added several key transfers that could have an immediate impact on the field. Among these was edge rusher Patrick Payton, a standout player from Florida State who is expected to boost LSU’s defensive line. Another major acquisition was wide receiver Nic Anderson from Oklahoma, a playmaker who can contribute immediately to the Tigers’ offense. Additionally, LSU bolstered its offensive line with Braelin Moore, a versatile interior lineman from Virginia Tech.

But recruiting wasn’t just about adding talent from other schools. Kelly and his staff worked tirelessly to secure high-profile recruits from the high school ranks as well. The program secured commitments from some of the nation’s top prospects, giving LSU a strong foundation for the future. The combination of these recruits and transfers created a roster with the depth and talent necessary to compete for championships.

Retention of Key Players: Garrett Nussmeier

Perhaps the most significant decision for LSU in the 2024 offseason was the return of quarterback Garrett Nussmeier. Nussmeier had the option to enter the 2025 NFL Draft, but instead, he chose to return for his senior season. This decision was a major win for Kelly and LSU, as Nussmeier’s leadership and experience will be invaluable to the team in 2025.

Nussmeier had an up-and-down career at LSU, but his flashes of brilliance were enough to suggest he could be the quarterback who leads the Tigers back to prominence. His decision to return indicates that he believes in Kelly’s vision for the program and is committed to helping LSU achieve its goals. With Nussmeier under center, LSU has a quarterback capable of leading the offense, making crucial throws, and elevating the team when needed.

Coaching Staff Changes and Development

Along with recruiting and player retention, Kelly made several important changes to his coaching staff during the offseason. Recognizing the importance of player development, Kelly brought in several experienced coaches to strengthen the various aspects of LSU’s game plan.

One notable addition to Kelly’s staff was the hiring of a new offensive coordinator, whose expertise is expected to bring new energy and ideas to LSU’s offense. With a more dynamic and innovative offensive scheme, the Tigers hope to capitalize on their wealth of talent at the skill positions, including the wide receivers and running backs.

On the defensive side of the ball, Kelly made a change in the defensive line coaching position, bringing in a coach known for his ability to develop NFL-caliber talent. With a stronger emphasis on player development, LSU’s defense is poised to improve and become more consistent, a critical factor if the Tigers want to compete in the SEC, which has become known for its high-powered offenses.

Finebaum has been particularly impressed with these moves, suggesting that Kelly’s decision to bring in experienced coaching talent could be the key to LSU’s future success. With an enhanced coaching staff and a focus on development, the Tigers are well-positioned to make a deep run in 2025.

Paul Finebaum’s Shift in Opinion on Brian Kelly and LSU

When Brian Kelly first took over at LSU, many, including Paul Finebaum, were skeptical about his ability to thrive in the pressure-packed environment of the SEC. LSU is a program with high expectations, and following the success of Ed Orgeron’s 2019 national championship, the pressure to return to that level of success was immense. Finebaum, in particular, was cautious about Kelly’s ability to compete with the juggernaut programs in the SEC, such as Alabama, Georgia, and even Texas A&M.

However, after seeing the moves Kelly made during the 2024 offseason, Finebaum’s opinion on LSU and Kelly has evolved. In a recent appearance on The Paul Finebaum Show, Finebaum remarked that he has gained confidence in Kelly’s ability to elevate LSU. “I wouldn’t give him a high grade last year. But, before the grade could have even come in, he had such a great offseason that I’m willing to give him a little bit more patience,” Finebaum said. He continued, “I love LSU next year. They’ve been my keep-your-eye-on team for a while. I think this is the year that Brian Kelly shuts everyone up.”

Finebaum’s comments reflect a broader sentiment that Kelly has positioned LSU to be a force in 2025. By making key decisions in terms of recruitment, player retention, and coaching staff adjustments, Kelly has demonstrated that he has the ability to build a championship-caliber team. For Finebaum, this offseason was a turning point, and he now believes that Kelly’s program could be on the verge of greatness.

What It Means for LSU’s 2025 Season

The 2024 offseason has laid the groundwork for what could be a pivotal season for LSU in 2025. With a strong recruiting class, key players returning, and a revamped coaching staff, LSU is primed to compete at the highest level in the SEC. For Brian Kelly, 2025 could be the year he proves that he is the right man for the job in Baton Rouge.

With Garrett Nussmeier at quarterback, an influx of talent from the transfer portal, and a coaching staff focused on player development, LSU’s chances of competing for an SEC championship and a College Football Playoff berth are strong. The Tigers will need to navigate a tough SEC schedule, but with the improvements made during the offseason, they are more than capable of doing so.

Finebaum’s shift in opinion reflects the optimism surrounding LSU’s future under Kelly. While the SEC is always a highly competitive conference, LSU has the talent, depth, and coaching to challenge for a spot at the top. If Kelly’s offseason moves continue to pay off, 2025 could mark the beginning of a new era of success for LSU football.