Brian Kelly firing: LSU, Scott Woodward release statement on removal, name interim coach

LSU fired coach Brian Kelly effective immediately, and Kelly met with the team on Sunday night for his final farewell. In the moments that followed, the program posted a press release officially announcing the news.

In it were comments from athletics director Scott Woodward. First, it’s noteworthy that the details of the separation between Kelly and LSU are still being worked out.

“When Coach Kelly arrived at LSU four years ago, we had high hopes that he would lead us to multiple SEC and national championships during his time in Baton Rouge,” Woodward said in the release. “Ultimately, the success at the level that LSU demands simply did not materialize, and I made the decision to make a change after last night’s game.

“I am grateful for the ongoing consultations and support of the LSU Board of Supervisors and Interim President Matt Lee in this decision. We wish Coach Kelly and his family the very best in their future endeavors. We will continue to negotiate his separation and will work toward a path that is better for both parties.”

Brian Kelly posted a 34-14 record during his four seasons in charge of the program. He also had a 19-10 mark in SEC play.

The Tigers were often competitive but failed to break through in a major way. Saturday’s humbling 49-25 loss to Texas A&M was a low point, with fan frustration boiling over into cheers for Kelly to be fired.

The loss dropped LSU to 5-3 on the season and effectively ended the team’s playoff hopes. That was too much for Brian Kelly to survive.

LSU noted in its release that the interim coach will be running backs coach Frank Wilson. He will coach out the rest of the season, with Brian Kelly departing immediately.

“As a proud alum, and as the current caretaker of our athletics programs, I will not compromise in our pursuit of excellence and we will not lower our standards,” Woodward said. “I continue to believe that LSU is the best football program in America and that our head coach position is among the best considering our investment, our ability to attract and retain talent, our unbelievable fans, and our institutional and statewide commitment to – and love for – LSU Football.

“We will immediately begin a national search for a new head football coach, and I am confident in our ability to bring to Baton Rouge an outstanding leader, teacher and coach, who fits our culture and community and who embraces the excellence that we demand. While there will certainly be speculation and reports on candidates and the process, together we will celebrate and welcome a new coach at the appropriate time. I urge all in the LSU community to continue to support our student-athletes and coaches as they compete the rest of the season.”