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

ESPN analyst Paul Finebaum has expressed strong confidence in LSU football’s prospects for the 2025 season, highlighting the program’s strategic moves and potential for success.

Finebaum’s optimism stems from several key developments within the LSU program:

• Garrett Nussmeier’s Return: Quarterback Garrett Nussmeier is set to return for the 2025 season. In the previous season, he threw for 4,052 yards and 29 touchdowns, showcasing his potential as a leader on the field.
• Top Transfer Portal Class: LSU secured the No. 1-ranked transfer portal class, adding significant talent to the roster. This includes players like edge rusher Patrick Payton from Florida State and wide receiver Nic Anderson from Oklahoma.
• Strong Recruiting Class: The Tigers also finished with the No. 8 recruiting class nationally, bolstering their depth and future prospects.

Finebaum believes these factors position LSU favorably for a successful season. He noted, “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.”

While Finebaum is optimistic, he also emphasizes the importance of the upcoming season for head coach Brian Kelly. Despite previous successes, including playoff appearances, Kelly has yet to secure a conference championship or national title at LSU. Finebaum asserts that 2025 is a critical year, stating, “If Brian Kelly delivers in the next upcoming season, then I think all bets against him are off.”

The expanded College Football Playoff format increases LSU’s chances of making a deep run, but Finebaum warns that failure to perform could intensify scrutiny on Kelly. He added, “If he fails, then I think all the criticism of Brian Kelly will metastasize.”

For LSU to capitalize on Finebaum’s optimism, several elements will be crucial:

• Consistent Quarterback Play: Nussmeier’s development and performance will be pivotal.
• Effective Integration of Transfers: Seamless assimilation of new players into the system is essential.
• Strong Offensive and Defensive Units: Balanced and effective play on both sides of the ball will be necessary to compete at the highest level.

With these factors in place, LSU aims to not only meet but exceed expectations in the 2025 season.

Paul Finebaum’s insights reflect a blend of optimism and realism regarding LSU football’s 2025 season. While acknowledging the program’s strengths, he underscores the importance of delivering results to solidify LSU’s position among college football’s elite.