Paul Finebaum Says LSU Football in ‘Great Shape’ Entering 2025 Season.

As college football programs gear up for the 2025 season, all eyes are on Baton Rouge. The LSU Tigers, a team with one of the richest traditions in the Southeastern Conference, are coming off a transitional 2024 season that ended with mixed results. With offseason adjustments, coaching staff developments, and a revamped roster, ESPN college football analyst Paul Finebaum believes that LSU is “in great shape” heading into the new campaign.

Finebaum, known for his strong opinions and deep connections within the SEC, made his remarks during a recent appearance on ESPN Radio, where he broke down the trajectory of several SEC teams. LSU, despite their 9-4 finish last season, was one of the programs he spotlighted as having “all the tools to return to the top tier” of college football.

So, what exactly has changed for LSU, and why is Finebaum so optimistic?

A Look Back: LSU’s 2024 Campaign

The 2024 season was a year of growing pains and adjustment for the Tigers. Under the leadership of Brian Kelly, who entered his third season as head coach, LSU struggled to maintain consistency. An early non-conference loss to USC and tough defeats to Alabama and Texas A&M put the Tigers on the back foot early.

Despite those setbacks, the Tigers managed to finish the season with a respectable 9-4 record, including a bowl victory over North Carolina. Quarterback Garrett Nussmeier, in his first full season as a starter, threw for over 4,000 yards and 29 touchdowns, showing flashes of brilliance while also making typical first-year-starter mistakes.

The defense, however, was the Achilles’ heel. Ranked near the bottom of the SEC in total defense, LSU struggled to stop elite offenses and gave up big plays in crucial moments. That deficiency prompted immediate changes in the offseason.

Offseason Overhaul: New Faces, New Energy

One of the reasons for Finebaum’s positive outlook on LSU is the way the program approached the offseason. Brian Kelly and his staff wasted no time revamping the roster and coaching structure, addressing the team’s most glaring weaknesses.

Defensive Staff Shake-Up

After a disappointing year on defense, LSU hired Blake Baker away from Missouri to serve as the new defensive coordinator. Baker brings a reputation for aggressive, disciplined defenses, and his approach is already making waves in spring practices. Finebaum noted, “This is exactly the type of change LSU needed. Blake Baker knows how to get the most out of his guys, and he’s inheriting a lot of raw talent.”

Transfer Portal Success

Perhaps the most significant offseason development was LSU’s dominance in the transfer portal. According to 247Sports, LSU landed the No. 1 transfer class in the country, highlighted by:

• Patrick Payton, an edge rusher from Florida State with All-ACC honors.
• Nic Anderson, a big-bodied wide receiver from Oklahoma who adds depth and explosiveness.
• Jaheim Thomas, a linebacker from Arkansas who is expected to provide leadership and stability.

These additions, along with several promising recruits, give LSU one of the most complete and balanced rosters in the SEC.

Returning Stars: Core of Experience

One of the advantages LSU has going into 2025 is continuity at key positions. While many top programs face uncertainty at quarterback, LSU has stability with Garrett Nussmeier returning as the starter.

Garrett Nussmeier (QB)

Nussmeier has matured significantly since his early days in Baton Rouge. While 2024 wasn’t perfect, his performance in the Citrus Bowl and strong spring showings have reassured coaches and fans alike.

“Garrett’s ceiling is high,” Finebaum said. “He’s got arm talent, mobility, and most importantly, the leadership qualities you want in a QB.”

Caden Durham (RB)

After a breakout freshman season, Durham is expected to carry the bulk of the running game. He posted over 900 yards in 2024 and is a threat in both the ground and passing attack.

Mason Taylor (TE)

Taylor, one of the top tight ends in the country, continues to be a safety blanket for Nussmeier. His ability to stretch the field and block effectively makes him a dual-threat asset.

A Clear Identity on Offense

Brian Kelly has always emphasized balance and discipline. With new offensive coordinator Joe Sloan, promoted from quarterbacks coach, LSU’s offense is evolving into a more versatile and dynamic system.

Expect to see multiple sets, creative play-calling, and more use of tempo. Sloan’s scheme is designed to get the ball into the hands of playmakers like Anderson, Chris Hilton Jr., and Aaron Anderson, who have the speed to stretch defenses vertically.

The 2025 Schedule: A Balanced Test

LSU’s schedule in 2025 is tough but manageable. They open with a marquee non-conference game against Clemson at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta. A win there would catapult the Tigers into national championship conversations.

Other key matchups include:

• At Texas A&M – Revenge is on LSU’s mind after a 2024 loss.
• Home vs. Alabama – Always the biggest game of the year. This matchup could decide the SEC West.
• At Florida – The Gators are rebuilding but remain dangerous in The Swamp.
• Home vs. Ole Miss – Lane Kiffin’s squad always presents matchup nightmares.

Paul Finebaum believes that the structure of the schedule could work in LSU’s favor. “If they can build early momentum against Clemson, and stay healthy, they’ll be in the playoff mix by November,” he said.

Recruiting Momentum and Future Outlook

Beyond 2025, LSU’s future looks even brighter. Brian Kelly has built strong recruiting pipelines in Louisiana and Texas, two of the most fertile football regions in the country.

The Tigers currently hold commitments from several top-100 recruits, including:

• Bryce Underwood (QB) – The No. 1 overall player in the 2025 class.
• Harlem Berry (RB) – A New Orleans native with elite speed and vision.
• Dorian Brew (CB) – One of the best shutdown corners in the nation.

This influx of young talent, combined with Kelly’s culture-focused leadership, suggests that LSU is not just built for a one-year run—they’re aiming for sustained dominance.

Challenges Still Ahead

While optimism is high, LSU still has hurdles to clear:

1. Defensive Chemistry – Can Blake Baker get the defense to gel quickly?
2. Offensive Line Depth – Injuries plagued this unit in 2024. Improved depth is essential.
3. Consistency – The Tigers were a “Jekyll and Hyde” team last season. Eliminating mental lapses and penalties will be critical.

Finebaum is aware of these challenges but remains bullish. “No team is without flaws, but what sets LSU apart is the way they’ve attacked those flaws this offseason. That’s the sign of a championship-caliber program.”

Paul Finebaum’s confidence in LSU heading into the 2025 season reflects more than just optimism—it’s a recognition of progress. Under Brian Kelly, LSU has gone from a team seeking identity to one building toward sustained excellence.

From a bolstered defense and elite transfer additions to a returning core of offensive stars, the Tigers have all the ingredients to make a serious run in the SEC and beyond. The road won’t be easy, but as Finebaum concluded in his remarks:

“LSU is built the right way. They’ve got the talent, the coaching, and now the experience. If they stay healthy, don’t be surprised if they’re back in the Playoff come December.”

With a new season on the horizon and national expectations rising, LSU has the spotlight. Now it’s time to prove the hype is justified.