LSU’s coaching staff is undergoing some changes on the offensive side of the ball, with Brian Kelly making key promotions.
According to sources, Joe Sloan, the quarterbacks coach, is being elevated to the position of offensive coordinator and playcaller. Additionally, Cortez Hankton, who serves as the Tigers’ wide receivers coach and pass game coordinator, is being promoted to co-offensive coordinator.
In the 2023 season, under Kelly’s leadership, LSU’s offense, led by Heisman Trophy winner Jayden Daniels, was nothing short of electric. The team secured its second consecutive 10-3 season, ranking first in the nation for total offense with an average of 543.5 yards per game. The passing game, averaging 338.9 yards per game, also stood out and ranked third in the FBS.
Kelly had previously made significant changes to the defensive coaching staff, bringing in coaches like Blake Baker, Bo Davis, Kevin Peoples, and Corey Raymond. Raymond, in particular, returned to LSU after spending time at Florida, having previously spent a decade in Baton Rouge.
These adjustments on the defensive side of the ball came after LSU’s defense struggled in the 2023 season, ranking 105th nationally in total defense with 416.6 yards per game allowed and tied for 78th in the FBS with Akron in terms of points allowed (28 points per game). Notably, the defense faced difficulties in games against Florida State, Ole Miss, and Alabama, allowing at least 42 points and 494 total yards in each of those losses.
LSU is gearing up for its 2024 season opener against USC in the Vegas Kickoff Classic on September 1.