The LSU Tigers, one of college football’s most storied programs, have entered the 2025 season with renewed energy and optimism under the leadership of head coach Brian Kelly. After a successful first two seasons under Kelly, which included an SEC Championship Game appearance and a bowl victory, expectations are high for the Tigers. However, despite their talent, they face significant hurdles if they hope to secure a spot in the College Football Playoff (CFP) this season. Kelly, who took over as LSU’s head coach in 2022 after a highly successful tenure at Notre Dame, has already proven his ability to build competitive teams. However, as the Tigers strive to reach the ultimate prize in college football, they must navigate three critical challenges that could derail their playoff hopes.
The first of these challenges revolves around consistency. LSU has always been a program with immense talent, from elite quarterbacks and running backs to a defensive line capable of wreaking havoc. However, the Tigers have often struggled with maintaining a level of play high enough to consistently beat elite teams. This inconsistency was a theme throughout the 2023 season, despite LSU’s strong individual performances and big wins. They finished the regular season with impressive victories over top-ranked opponents, but also faltered in key moments against lower-ranked teams. Kelly’s task will be to ensure that his team plays at a high level on a weekly basis, from start to finish.
One of the main aspects that contributed to LSU’s inconsistency last season was their defense. LSU’s defense, which has long been one of the program’s strengths, was uneven throughout 2023. At times, they looked like a dominant unit, stifling opposing offenses and generating turnovers. However, in other games, LSU’s defense seemed to fall short, struggling to stop high-powered offenses. With games against elite SEC opponents such as Alabama, Georgia, and Ole Miss, LSU cannot afford to have a defense that is anything less than dominant. Brian Kelly’s ability to work with defensive coordinator Matt House and fix the issues in the Tigers’ defense will play a huge role in whether LSU can make the CFP.
Another challenge LSU faces is the brutal schedule they must navigate. The SEC is widely regarded as the most competitive conference in college football, and LSU’s path to the College Football Playoff is paved with tough matchups. LSU’s regular season includes games against perennial powers such as Alabama, Mississippi State, and Texas A&M, as well as a non-conference matchup with an improved Florida State team. Most importantly, the Tigers will have to face Georgia, the defending national champions and a team widely considered to be the best in the country. These games will not only test LSU’s talent and depth but will also require a strategic approach to beat teams that consistently dominate the competition. While Kelly has shown he can lead his team to success against top-tier competition, he will need to manage these matchups effectively to ensure the Tigers don’t lose valuable games that could affect their playoff chances.
Furthermore, LSU’s roster turnover could also create challenges. As with any top-tier college football program, LSU sees a lot of turnover in terms of both players and coaching staff. While the Tigers have a solid foundation in terms of talent, Kelly’s job is to ensure that the new players can step up and fill the gaps left by the departing players. The loss of several key contributors from last season, particularly on defense and the offensive line, could present an obstacle if LSU’s younger players or newcomers fail to adapt quickly enough. Kelly has done an admirable job in recruiting, bringing in top-tier talent, but college football is a game of adaptation, and LSU’s ability to develop and integrate these new pieces into the system will be a key factor in their playoff hopes. The learning curve for freshmen and first-year starters can be steep, especially against top-tier competition. As the SEC is known for its physicality and speed, it will be imperative for LSU’s young players to grow up fast.
At the core of these challenges lies the ability of Brian Kelly himself to manage the team throughout the season. Kelly has a wealth of experience and has proven he can win at the highest level, but the SEC presents a unique set of obstacles that even the most seasoned coaches find difficult to navigate. LSU’s success this season will ultimately depend on Kelly’s ability to adjust to the dynamics of his team, the opposition, and the challenges of coaching in a league where the competition is fierce every week. Kelly’s decisions in terms of game strategy, player management, and in-game adjustments will be critical. In addition, managing the pressure that comes with the expectations of a passionate fan base, the media spotlight, and the ever-present pressure to win big will require not only skill but also mental toughness. Kelly’s ability to lead the Tigers through adversity, especially in close games, will make or break their playoff aspirations.
The Tigers’ offense, led by talented quarterback Jayden Daniels, also has a key role in overcoming these challenges. Daniels, who has shown flashes of brilliance, will need to take the next step as a leader and decision-maker in order for LSU to reach its full potential. He has the ability to make plays with both his arm and his legs, but consistency will be crucial. LSU has weapons at wide receiver and running back, but the offensive line’s ability to protect Daniels and establish a balanced attack will be vital for long-term success. LSU’s ability to control the ball and make plays in key moments will directly impact their chances in tough games. A reliable and productive offense can alleviate pressure on the defense and give LSU the chance to capitalize on any mistakes made by their opponents.
In conclusion, LSU’s quest for a College Football Playoff berth in 2025 will require them to overcome three major challenges. Consistency on both sides of the ball will be critical, as LSU cannot afford to drop games against teams they are expected to beat. The strength of the SEC schedule presents another significant obstacle, requiring LSU to rise to the occasion in every game and navigate tough matchups with precision. Finally, roster turnover and the need for younger players to step up will demand careful management by Brian Kelly. The Tigers have the talent, the coaching, and the resources to compete for a playoff spot, but it will be their ability to navigate these challenges that determines whether they can make a run for the ultimate prize in college football. Brian Kelly and the LSU Tigers have a long road ahead, but if they can rise to the occasion, the College Football Playoff could very well be within their reach.
