LSU, Brian Kelly agree to reduced buyout as college football's historic season continues
The Bayou Bengals have a new coach in 2026.
- Sports

The Bayou Bengals have a new coach in 2026.

Louisiana State University (LSU) and head football coach Brian Kelly have concluded their professional relationship, as announced by university administrators. The separation agreement includes a $27 million financial arrangement. The announcement follows the team's season performance, which included games against Vanderbilt and Texas A&M.
During Kelly's time at LSU, the football program maintained its operations within collegiate athletics. The university's athletic department evaluated the program's performance metrics and win-loss record in relation to established objectives for postseason competition.
The financial aspects of coaching transitions extend beyond this specific case. Financial data indicates that Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS) institutions have allocated $140 million for coaching transitions during this season, compared to $132 million in the previous year. These numbers reflect the monetary commitments associated with administrative changes in college athletics.
LSU's search for a new head coach occurs concurrent with other coaching position openings across collegiate football. The selection process incorporates evaluation of candidates' professional records, leadership experience, and compatibility with the university's athletic department objectives.
The football program maintains its established operations, including regular home game attendance and athletic facility usage. The university has implemented standard procedures for reviewing potential candidates for the head coaching position.
Several current collegiate head coaches, including Steve Sarkisian and Lane Kiffin, are participating in discussions regarding various coaching positions at different institutions. Industry reports indicate Sarkisian has expressed interest in opportunities within professional football. These developments are separate from LSU's current coaching vacancy.
Multiple institutions are conducting coaching searches during this period, which aligns with standard operational adjustments in collegiate football programs. These changes occur as programs prepare for upcoming seasons and maintain their positions within their conferences.
The LSU athletic department continues its regular functions through this transition. Academic and athletic operations proceed according to established protocols while the university conducts its coaching search. The administration has implemented measures to maintain program stability during the interim period.
The selection process for new leadership follows established practices in collegiate athletics, including reviewing candidate qualifications and conducting interviews. The university continues to operate its athletic programs while proceeding with the coaching search.
As coaching transitions continue across collegiate football, institutions follow similar procedures for maintaining program continuity and selecting new leadership. These processes reflect standard practices in collegiate athletics administration and program management.
Moore was hit in the face and had to exit Oregon's game against Wisconsin. He exited the game immediately.