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As LSU’s head football coach Brian Kelly gears up for his third season leading Louisiana’s flagship college football team, he spoke in an exclusive interview with The Advocate on Thursday. Topics ranged from NIL and recruiting to scheduling for the Southeastern Conference and the potential for LSU’s first-ever game in Ireland.
Discussing the New Defensive Tackle Commitment: Jay’viar Suggs
Kelly expressed excitement about the addition of Jay’viar Suggs from Grand Valley State. “He’s athletic and has all the qualities we were looking for in that position. At 23, nearly 24, he’s physically mature and ready to take on reps. His arrival, along with Gio Paez from Wisconsin, boosts our depth significantly. We’ll rotate many players at that position, which means they don’t have to play 30 or 40 snaps. That’s a huge advantage.”
Reflecting on the past season, Kelly noted, “Despite having three defensive tackles drafted (Maason Smith, Jordan Jefferson, and Mekhi Wingo), our defense wasn’t as strong as it should have been. It’s a misconception that you need NFL-caliber players to have a great defense. What’s essential are fundamentally sound and committed players, which our new defensive line coach, Bo Davis, will ensure. Adding more players to the roster was our strategy, and we’ve succeeded.”
Insight from Personal Connections
Kelly acknowledged the valuable insights gained from his son Kenzel, who played with Suggs at Grand Valley State. “Having personal input on Suggs’ character, locker room fit, work ethic, and desire to contribute was crucial. Garrett Dellinger, who knew Suggs from high school, also vouched for him. Such insights are vital for ensuring a player fits into our culture.”
Evaluating the Defensive Tackle Room
With Suggs joining the team, Kelly feels confident about the defensive tackle room’s depth. “The numbers are set; now it’s about developing these players over the summer.”
Future Portal Prospects
Regarding additional transfers, Kelly mentioned, “We’re considering a few other options at different positions.”
SEC Scheduling and Financial Considerations
Kelly commented on the SEC’s decision to stick with an eight-game schedule for 2024 despite adding Texas and Oklahoma. “The push for a nine-game schedule will hinge on agreements with ABC/ESPN. Financial compensation for the extra game is necessary, especially as NIL support becomes critical. The added revenue from an extra game could offset costs, making it a sensible move.”
Rule Changes: Helmet Communications and Two-Minute Warning
Kelly shared his views on the new helmet communication rule and the two-minute warning. “Helmet communication benefits offenses by reducing the need for signaling, but it doesn’t fully address defensive communication challenges due to the rotating players. It’s an advantage for offenses without solving sign-stealing issues.”
On the two-minute warning, Kelly said, “I opposed it as it’s another stoppage of play that feels unnecessary in college football. Unlike the NFL, it seems more like an additional commercial break.”
Coaching Philosophy and Adaptability
Reflecting on his coaching career, Kelly revealed, “By 2016 at Notre Dame, I realized player development was my true passion, something the NFL doesn’t prioritize. That’s when I knew college football was the right fit for me.”
Kelly also discussed adapting to recent changes in college athletics. “I thrive in chaos and view uncertain times as growth opportunities. The lack of rules can be challenging, but it also allows for innovative solutions. A clear revenue-sharing model for student-athletes, managed by universities, seems imminent and will help stabilize the current situation.”
Future of Revenue Sharing and College Athletics
Kelly envisions a negotiated settlement leading to a sustainable revenue-sharing model. “This will likely include a form of salary cap and a fair-market NIL clearinghouse, creating a more balanced playing field. Universities will handle the revenue distribution, ensuring fairness across all sports.”
Optimism for LSU and College Football
Kelly is optimistic about LSU’s and college football’s future. “We’re well-positioned to navigate these changes. College football’s popularity and financial stability ensure student-athletes will be well-compensated without facing excessive demands.”
Expectations with CFP Expansion
With the College Football Playoff expanding to 12 teams, Kelly acknowledged the heightened expectations. “At LSU, making the playoffs is now a benchmark of success. Fans will expect us not only to qualify but to make a significant run, akin to reaching the Sweet 16 in basketball.”
Potential Ireland Game
Kelly mentioned the possibility of LSU playing a game in Ireland. “We’re in early talks with Anthony Travel, who has experience organizing such events. It would be a fantastic experience.”
Personal Interests
Outside of football, Kelly enjoys watching sports documentaries. “I recently watched ‘Six Nations (Full Contact),’ a series on European rugby championships. I find the training, rehab, and motivational strategies fascinating. I prefer this type of content over lengthy crime or mystery series.”
Coach Kelly’s insights reflect his strategic approach to building a robust team, adapting to evolving college football dynamics, and maintaining a forward-thinking outlook for LSU’s future.
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