Paul Finebaum Defends Brian Kelly: Why LSU’s Coach Isn’t on the Hot Seat in 2025
Brian Kelly has been a prominent figure in college football for years, and as he enters his fourth season leading the LSU Tigers, questions about his future often swirl. Despite a solid record and clear progress, some fans and analysts have speculated that Kelly might be on the hot seat heading into the 2025 season. However, veteran ESPN analyst Paul Finebaum strongly disagrees with that notion.
Brian Kelly’s LSU Tenure So Far: Solid but Not Spectacular
Since arriving at LSU, Brian Kelly has compiled a respectable 29-11 record. The Tigers have consistently won at least nine games each season under his leadership, a commendable feat in the ultra-competitive Southeastern Conference (SEC). Kelly also led LSU to an SEC Championship Game appearance, a clear milestone in a conference dominated by powerhouses like Alabama and Georgia.
However, despite this success, LSU has yet to make it to the College Football Playoff (CFP) during Kelly’s tenure, fueling some critics to question if he is the right coach to take LSU back to national prominence.
The Hot Seat Talk: Premature or Justified?
The hot seat chatter often centers on whether Kelly can deliver a national championship. Some argue that the Tigers, with their rich history and resources, should be competing for the top prize every season. Critics also point to Kelly’s departure from Notre Dame—he was one of the few coaches to leave the prestigious program voluntarily—and expected him to deliver immediate and spectacular results at LSU.
But Paul Finebaum sees things differently.
Finebaum’s Perspective: The Bigger Picture Matters
Appearing on ESPN’s First Take, Finebaum offered a measured and insightful take on Kelly’s situation. He acknowledged the expectations but reminded viewers to consider the progress Kelly has made and the challenges inherent to the SEC.
Finebaum highlighted key achievements:
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Kelly’s victory over Nick Saban and Alabama, a historic win for LSU.
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Reaching the SEC Championship Game with quarterback Jayden Daniels.
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The natural growing pains of a program still adapting to a new coaching regime.
Most importantly, Finebaum emphasized the significance of the current roster.
“He now has an outstanding roster. He told me a few weeks ago it’s the best roster he’s had since he was at Notre Dame,” Finebaum said.
“He also is recruiting at an elite level. He just picked up the No. 1 player in next year’s class yesterday. That matters.”
According to Finebaum, the roster is the most critical factor in judging a coach’s future, and Kelly’s recruiting success signals that LSU’s best football days under his leadership may still be ahead.
What’s at Stake in 2025?
Kelly is in the fourth year of a massive 10-year, $95 million contract with LSU. His contract’s buyout clause is steep, about 90% of his remaining base salary, which makes a coaching change financially significant for LSU.
But more than money, 2025 represents a pivotal year for Kelly’s program. This will be the first full season where LSU fields mostly players that Kelly personally recruited, not leftovers from the previous regime. The success or failure of this roster could ultimately define his legacy at LSU.
Is Brian Kelly on the Hot Seat?
Given the current roster talent and recruiting momentum, Finebaum argues it’s premature to place Kelly on the hot seat. Instead, patience and context are key. With a tough SEC schedule ahead, Kelly’s experience and leadership could help LSU break through the playoff barrier.
The question remains open to fans and analysts alike: Does Brian Kelly’s progress and current momentum justify keeping him firmly in the coaching seat for the 2025 season, or is it time for LSU to explore other options?
What Fans and Experts Are Saying
As the 2025 college football season approaches, debate is heating up. Some fans demand national titles now, while others see the rebuilding process underway. Kelly’s ability to develop this talented roster and navigate a brutal SEC schedule will be under intense scrutiny.
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