In a move that sent shockwaves through the college football world, Ed Orgeron, the charismatic head coach who led LSU to a national championship in 2019, has departed from the program.
His exit comes with a hefty $17.1 million buyout, marking the end of an era filled with highs and lows for the Tigers.
The Rise of Ed Orgeron
Ed Orgeron took over as the interim head coach of LSU in 2016 after the firing of Les Miles. His passion and connection with the players quickly turned around a struggling program. By the end of the 2016 season, Orgeron had earned the full-time head coaching job.
The pinnacle of Orgeron’s career came in the 2019 season. With Heisman Trophy-winning quarterback Joe Burrow at the helm, the Tigers went undefeated, capturing the SEC Championship and culminating in a dominant victory over Clemson in the College Football Playoff National Championship. This season is widely regarded as one of the greatest in college football history.
The Decline
Despite the heights of 2019, the subsequent seasons saw a significant decline in LSU’s performance. The 2020 season was particularly challenging, with the Tigers finishing with a disappointing 5-5 record. The 2021 season didn’t start much better, leading to growing dissatisfaction among the fan base and boosters.
Several factors contributed to the decline. Key players from the championship team moved on to the NFL, and there were significant coaching staff changes. Additionally, LSU faced off-field issues, including NCAA investigations and allegations of mishandling sexual misconduct cases involving athletes. These compounded the on-field struggles, creating a tumultuous environment around the program.
The Buyout and Departure
The decision to part ways with Orgeron was not taken lightly. According to reports, LSU agreed to a $17.1 million buyout, one of the largest in college football history The buyout will be paid in installments through 2025, providing Orgeron with financial security as he steps away from his alma mater.
Athletic Director Scott Woodward expressed gratitude for Orgeron’s contributions but emphasized the need for a new direction. “Coach O will always be a cherished member of the LSU family. His achievements here speak for themselves, but we believe it’s time for new leadership to elevate the program,” Woodward stated
Reaction and Impact
The reaction to Orgeron’s departure has been mixed. Many fans remember the magic of the 2019 season and are saddened by his exit. However, there is also a sense of relief among those who felt the program had stagnated and needed a fresh start.
Former players have expressed their support for Orgeron. Joe Burrow, now with the NFL’s Cincinnati Bengals, tweeted, “Forever grateful to Coach O for believing in me and giving me a chance. He changed my life and many others.”
The impact on the current team remains to be seen. With a season still in progress, interim coaching decisions and future hires will be crucial in maintaining stability and recruiting momentum. LSU’s ability to attract top-tier coaching talent will be essential in returning the program to its championship aspirations.
Looking Ahead
As LSU embarks on a new chapter, the search for a new head coach is underway. The program’s storied history and resources make it an attractive destination, but the challenges are significant. Restoring LSU to national prominence will require a leader who can navigate both the on-field and off-field complexities of modern college football.
Ed Orgeron’s departure marks the end of a tumultuous but memorable era for LSU. While his time as head coach concluded under less than ideal circumstances, his legacy includes one of the most remarkable seasons in college football history. As the Tigers move forward, the impact of his tenure will be felt for years to come.
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