LSU Football Coach Brian Kelly Urgently Pushes for Regular Season Games Against Big Ten Powerhouses to Elevate Program
LSU football coach Brian Kelly has made it clear that he wants to face Big Ten opponents in the regular season as soon as possible. This desire signals a broader ambition not only to challenge his team against some of the toughest competition in college football but also to raise the national profile and recruiting power of LSU’s program. In an era where scheduling marquee matchups can heavily influence playoff considerations, recruiting success, and fan engagement, Kelly’s call to action highlights the evolving landscape of college football and the growing emphasis on high-profile non-conference games.
The Big Ten Conference has established itself as a football powerhouse over recent years, producing national champions, consistently high-ranked teams, and numerous NFL-caliber players. Teams like Ohio State, Michigan, Penn State, and Wisconsin have repeatedly shown their ability to compete at the highest level. For LSU, a program with a rich tradition of success in the Southeastern Conference (SEC), matching up with the Big Ten would represent a major statement of strength and intent. Coach Kelly recognizes this opportunity and the impact that such contests could have on his team.
One of the driving forces behind Kelly’s push for Big Ten matchups is the chance to test LSU’s mettle outside of the SEC’s grueling schedule. While the SEC is widely regarded as the toughest conference in college football, it is also somewhat insular. Playing Big Ten teams regularly would allow LSU to measure itself against different styles of football, different coaching philosophies, and different types of athletes. This exposure can prepare the Tigers for the postseason, where diverse opponents await, and can provide invaluable experience for players and coaches alike.
Another key factor motivating Kelly’s desire is the national exposure these games bring. The Big Ten has strong television partnerships and a massive fan base that spans much of the northern United States. Regularly playing Big Ten teams would allow LSU to tap into those markets, expanding the program’s reach beyond the traditional SEC footprint. This increased visibility can have far-reaching effects, from boosting merchandise sales and television ratings to enhancing recruiting pipelines in northern states. High school prospects who see LSU competing and winning against Big Ten teams may be more inclined to consider the Tigers as a destination.
Recruiting is a fundamental aspect of college football success, and Kelly is no stranger to this reality. By scheduling Big Ten opponents, LSU can showcase its commitment to competing on a national stage and winning against elite competition. Recruits want to play for programs that challenge themselves regularly and prove their worth against the best. Facing Big Ten teams in the regular season sends a message that LSU is not afraid to take on the toughest challenges, which can resonate strongly with top-tier prospects.
Furthermore, these matchups can help LSU in its pursuit of playoff appearances and national championships. The College Football Playoff selection committee places significant emphasis on strength of schedule and quality wins. Victories against high-profile Big Ten teams would enhance LSU’s resume and potentially secure a spot in the playoff conversation even if the Tigers stumble within the SEC. Kelly’s insistence on scheduling these games early in the regular season also provides an opportunity to build momentum and confidence that could carry through the grueling conference schedule.
The logistics of scheduling games against Big Ten opponents can be complex, however. Conferences often have contractual obligations and existing schedules that make arranging non-conference games challenging. Additionally, travel distances and timing must be carefully considered to avoid fatigue and disruption to the team’s preparation. Despite these hurdles, Kelly’s determination suggests that LSU’s athletic department is willing to prioritize these matchups and navigate the complexities to make them happen.
Beyond the on-field benefits, games against the Big Ten can also generate significant economic impact. High-profile games bring increased ticket sales, lucrative television contracts, and greater sponsorship opportunities. For LSU, this means additional revenue streams that can be reinvested into the football program and facilities. The excitement and buzz around such marquee matchups can also galvanize the fan base, fostering a stronger connection between the program and its supporters.
It is worth noting that college football is rapidly evolving, with conference realignments, expanded playoffs, and new scheduling models becoming more common. In this environment, flexibility and innovation in scheduling are crucial. Kelly’s proactive approach aligns with these trends, positioning LSU to remain competitive and relevant in a shifting landscape. By seeking out challenging opponents outside the SEC, LSU demonstrates adaptability and a forward-thinking mindset.
Moreover, playing Big Ten teams can help build long-term rivalries that energize fans and create compelling storylines. Rivalries are the lifeblood of college football, driving attendance and viewership. If LSU and Big Ten programs engage in regular competition, it could lead to the development of new rivalries with national implications. These rivalries often transcend the field, influencing recruiting battles, media coverage, and fan engagement.
Critics might argue that adding Big Ten opponents to the schedule could increase the physical toll on players or dilute traditional SEC rivalries. However, the benefits of such matchups—enhanced exposure, recruiting advantages, playoff positioning, and program growth—appear to outweigh these concerns. Coaches like Brian Kelly, who have experience coaching at multiple high-level programs, understand the importance of balancing these factors to maximize their team’s success.
In summary, Brian Kelly’s eagerness to schedule Big Ten opponents in the regular season as soon as possible is a strategic move designed to elevate LSU football on multiple fronts. It reflects a desire to test the team against elite competition, expand the program’s national presence, enhance recruiting, and improve playoff chances. This approach also aligns with broader trends in college football toward more dynamic and high-profile scheduling. While challenges exist in making these games a reality, Kelly’s commitment signals LSU’s intent to compete and win at the highest level, regardless of the opponent or location. For LSU fans and college football observers alike, these potential matchups promise exciting, hard-fought battles that could define the future of the program and college football itself.
