LSU’s defense must close the gap on its offense if the Tigers hope to contend for a College Football Playoff berth under Brian Kelly.
- Head Coach: Brian Kelly (fourth season)
- 2024 Record: 9-4 (won Texas Bowl)
- Strength of Schedule:
- PFF Projected Win Total: 7.5
- FanDuel Win Total: 8.5
2024 Recap
Brian Kelly’s third season in Baton Rouge was his most disappointing yet, as LSU fell short of 10 wins and finished outside the top 25 for the first time under his watch. Once again, the defense was the Tigers’ Achilles’ heel, ranking 82nd nationally in EPA allowed per play. LSU is banking on a wave of incoming transfers to help shore up that side of the ball, but even if the defense falters, the offense has enough firepower to keep the Tigers competitive in shootouts.
Garrett Nussmeier, a potential top-10 NFL draft pick, leads an attack loaded with playmakers. The biggest question is whether LSU’s rebuilt offensive line can hold up against elite SEC fronts.
