Ed Orgeron has said he wants to be in the running for the head coaching job at Louisiana State University. But why does he want to return, especially after how his previous tenure ended?
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"Coach O" was dropped by LSU in 2021. It was announced as a "mutual separation." But the decision to buy out Orgeron's contract was prompted by his inability to repeat his success in 2019.
It seems odd that anyone would want to return to work at a place where they weren't wanted. However, there's more to this story than a random soundbite.
LSU Has Stumbled Since Coach Ed Orgeron Led the Team to Glory
Orgeron and quarterback Joe Burrow led the Tigers to an undefeated season, which included an SEC and national championship, during the 2019 season.
But even after all the accolades, which included a Heisman for Burrow and multiple Coach of the Year awards, Orgeron couldn't come close to replicating his previous achievement.
The departure of key staff members and recruiting mistakes, as well as some Title IX investigations and cultural issues within the program, led LSU to a 5-5 record in 2020. The team struggled again in 2021. This led to Orgeron accepting a $17.1 million buyout from the college, despite a 51-20 record. It was structured to be paid in installments over time rather than all at once.
The gravely voiced coach famously told reporters, "What time do you want me to leave, and what door do you want me out of?"
Despite a 34-14 overall record, Brian Kelly, Orgeron's replacement, couldn't lead the Tigers to a College Football Playoff national championship during his tenure. He was fired on Oct. 26.
Is LSU Even Considering Ed Orgeron?
When asked by ESPN if he would return to LSU as head coach, Orgeron replied by saying, "I'd love to. Are you kidding me? Hey, I'm one phone call away. I just gotta get in my truck. I could be there today."
Considering that the last installment of Orgeron's hefty buyout is coming at the end of this year, it's easy to see why he'd want to get back to work, even if his employer let him go years ago.
However, if the rumors are to be believed, KSU is hoping to land Lane Kiffin from Ole Miss for the role. When asked if he'd accept a role on Kiffin's staff, Orgeron seemed open to the idea.
"Yeah, I'd consider it. I love LSU," he said.
Orgeron continued, "I still got my home in Baton Rouge. I loved when I was coaching for Coach [Les] Miles being the defensive line coach. I love the Tigers, and if I'm getting back into coaching, for sure I'd consider it. No doubt."
Whether Orgeron will return to LSU is up to the school's Board of Supervisors. We'll keep you posted.
