Focus on Football: LSU Tigers at SEC Media Days

© Dale Zanine-USA TODAY Sports

LSU coach Brian Kelly kicked off the 2024 Southeastern Conference Media Days as the first man up at the podium.

As one of only 4 coaches in SEC history to win 10+ games in each of his first 2 seasons, Kelly has posted 7 straight 10-win seasons. That is the longest active streak among FBS coaches. Kelly welcomes 12 starters back (6 on offense, 6 on defense.). That equates to 63 percent of returning production from last year’s team. The talking season has begun with the 2024 SEC Media Days.

Brian Kelly at SEC Media Days

The Tigers’ projected win total for 2024 sits at 7.9. LSU returns experience on both sides of the ball, plus they shored up their depth with talented transfers. LSU had a Ferrari for an offense and a Ford Pinto for a defense in 2023. As a result, Kelly fired his entire defensive staff.

The LSU offense, in 2024, will be led by quarterback Garrett Nussmeier, who is coming off a spectacular performance in the ReliaQuest Bowl game against Wisconsin. Nussmeier completed 69 percent of his passes for 395 yards and 3 TDs, leading the Tigers back from a deficit to earn a 35-31 hard-fought victory.

Waiting his turn behind Heisman Trophy winner Jayden Daniels, Nussmeier is familiar with the system of co-offensive coordinators Joe Sloan and Cortez Hankton. This puts him ahead of the curve going into fall camp. That bodes well for LSU.

On Garrett Nussmeier:

Kelly said Nussmeier has a good football IQ and the ability to recall information learned in meetings and go out and execute plays on the field with more game reps.

On Harold Perkins Jr.:

As a freshman starter, Kelly said that Perkins was put into positions on the field to have success. Perkins has since gained weight, is more mature and is a four-down linebacker who can make plays anywhere on the field.

On the Transfer Portal:

Kelly used the analogy of “topping off the tank” in terms of using the Transfer Portal.

He said it should be used as a luxury to find the best available players. If it is used based on needs, coaches haven’t accomplished their goals in traditional recruiting.

On Replacing Lost Production:

Kelly mentioned that wide receiver Kyren Lacy will be counted on heavily in 2024. In addition, Kelly said up to 8 players at the position could contribute this season, both on the outside and in the slot, and speed at the position is evident. With transfers CJ Daniels and Zavion Thomas, Kelly said the Tigers have the “right mix” of players to replace Malik Nabers and Brian Thomas Jr.

On Defensive Line Coach Bo Davis:

Getting former Texas coach Bo Davis to come to LSU, according to Kelly, was the opportunity to build up the LSU defensive line. Kelly said that Davis is demanding and is a motivator.

On LSU Defense:

Kelly said new defensive coordinator Blake Baker has LSU defenders excited about being a part of the LSU defense.

Brian Kelly's Year 3 Expectations:

Kelly said he only focuses on daily processes and making progress toward accomplishing team goals.

Kelly mentioned that LSU must up their standards to play for a championship. The improvement of the defense and a more balanced attack on both sides of the ball in 2024 is crucial for LSU’s success this season. LSU kicks off this season on Sept. 1 in Las Vegas against the USC Trojans.