LSU’s Strategic Move: Lane Kiffin and Ed Orgeron Join Forces

LSU created waves in college football by securing head coach Lane Kiffin from rival Ole Miss earlier this year. Kiffin’s profile rose sharply after he led Ole Miss to an impressive season last year. Under his guidance, the Rebels achieved an 11-1 record and secured the No. 6 seed in the College Football Playoff. They won two CFP games before being eliminated in the semifinals by the Miami Hurricanes.

In his initial months at LSU, Kiffin has assembled one of the strongest rosters in college football using the transfer portal. His efforts extend to building a capable coaching staff. On Wednesday, another key figure was announced as part of this team.

“Ed Orgeron is returning to LSU and will serve as the special assistant to recruiting and defense for the Tigers,” the school announced via a post on X, complete with a photo of Orgeron shaking hands with Lane Kiffin.

ESPN’s Pete Thamel commented on this hiring, highlighting Orgeron’s recruiting prowess. The revised recruiting rules allow Orgeron to travel and recruit for LSU, leveraging his extensive experience and strong ties with LSU and Kiffin to attract top talent.

Orgeron is a familiar face to LSU supporters. Between 2016 and 2021, he served as LSU’s head coach, achieving a 51-20 record and securing three bowl victories, including a national championship in 2019. This championship team is often regarded as one of the finest in college football history.

The impact of Orgeron’s leadership is evident. Thirteen players from that team now play in the NFL. Notable alumni include quarterback Joe Burrow (Cincinnati Bengals), wide receivers Justin Jefferson (Minnesota Vikings) and Ja’Marr Chase (Cincinnati Bengals), and guards Damien Lewis (Seattle Seahawks) and Ed Ingram (Houston Texans). The team also includes center Lloyd Cushenberry (Buffalo Bills), defensive tackle Damone Clark (Detroit Lions), linebackers Patrick Queen (Pittsburgh Steelers) and K’Lavon Chaisson (Washington Commanders), cornerbacks Derek Stingley Jr. (Houston Texans), Kristian Fulton (Kansas City Chiefs), Cor’Dale Flott (Tennessee Titans), and safety Grant Delpit (Cleveland Browns).

Orgeron brings additional head-coaching experience from his time at USC in 2013 and Ole Miss from 2005 to 2007. His return is set to strengthen LSU’s coaching team significantly.