The LSU Tigers began the season with hopes of solidifying their place among the nation’s elite and securing a spot in the expanded College Football Playoff.
But after a brutal 27-16 loss to Florida, those aspirations have completely evaporated, leaving head coach Brian Kelly’s squad grappling with a disappointing reality.
With the defeat, LSU’s record fell to 6-4 overall and 3-3 in the SEC, marking a significant downturn for a team that once had championship ambitions.
The loss also snapped Kelly’s impressive streak of seven consecutive seasons with 10 or more wins.
Even if the Tigers win their final two regular-season games against Vanderbilt and Oklahoma, as well as a bowl game, they would max out at nine wins – well short of the lofty expectations set for this program.
The frustration among LSU’s passionate fanbase is palpable, and much of the venom is directed at Kelly.
Discontent has been expressed widely across social media, but former Tigers standout and current New Orleans Saints star Tyrann “Honey Badger” Mathieu offered his own take.
After watching his alma mater suffer its third straight loss, Mathieu posted a striking message on X, stating, “I cannot wait to get to Baton Rouge and coach!”
Of course, The Honey Badger is one of the most electrifying players in LSU history.
During his two-year stint with the Tigers in 2010 and 2011, Mathieu built a reputation as a hard-hitting, game-changing playmaker.
He recorded 133 tackles, forced 11 fumbles, and recovered eight during his college career, earning All-American honors.
Since entering the NFL in 2013, Mathieu has continued to thrive.
The versatile defensive back is a three-time All-Pro, three-time Pro Bowler, and a member of the NFL’s All-2010s Team.
His professional stops include the Arizona Cardinals, Houston Texans, Kansas City Chiefs, and currently, the Saints.
Mathieu’s statement, while playful, has only amplified the pressure on Kelly.
Hired after the 2021 season following a successful tenure at Notre Dame, Kelly posted back-to-back 10-win seasons in 2022 and 2023.
However, this year’s struggles have left fans and influential backers questioning whether he can deliver the results LSU expects.
It’s unclear if Mathieu’s comment signals a genuine interest in coaching, but his words underscore the rising discontent among Tigers faithful.
Can you see The Honey Badger getting into coaching? … Perhaps starting as a defensive back assistant and working his way up the ladder?
As for the well-paid Kelly, what should LSU do if he continues to disappoint in Baton Rouge? … Just how much more slack does he truly deserve???
