LSU HC Brian Kelly 'cleans House' in sweeping defensive staff changes

LSU head coach Brian Kelly announced some major changes to his coaching staff on Wednesday, firing four defensive staff members, including defensive coordinator Matt House, who served in the role since the start of the 2022 season.

Kelly also announced defensive line coach Jimmy Lindsey and defensive backs coaches Kerry Cooks and Robert Steeples were also fired.

"I want to thank each of these coaches for their on behalf of our football program and our institution during their time here. Decisions like these are always difficult, and we do not take them lightly," said Kelly in a statement. 

However, if there ever was a time the decision to make coaching staff changes was easy, it would be in this scenario.

In 13 games, the Tigers defense allowed 28 points per game, tied for 81st in the country (Akron). They were even worse in total defense, allowing an average of 416.6 yards per game. 

In Monday's 35-31 win over Wisconsin, Badgers quarterback Tanner Mordecai threw for a season-high 378 yards, nearly erasing an outstanding performance by Tigers quarterback Garrett Nussmeier, who threw for 395 yards.

LSU wasn't as lucky during the regular season in losses to Florida State, Ole Miss and Alabama. In those games, LSU averaged 524.7 yards and 33.7 points. However, the defense averaged allowing 569 yards and 47.3 points.

With the four firings, Kelly has plenty of work to shore up his coaching staff in 2024. He must also find an offensive coordinator for the 2024 season. Former OC Mike Denbrock took the same position at Notre Dame on Dec. 27.