Brian Kelly Shares Insight on Key LSU Player Before Clemson Kickoff

Brian Kelly Reacts to Suspension

“In the last game of the 2024 season, A.J. Haulcy was ejected from the contest, initially listed as unsportsmanlike conduct,” the NCAA said in a statement to ESPN. “Postgame review clarified that the player was ejected for fighting. Fighting carries an automatic carryover penalty.”

The NCAA also noted that the suspension is not subject to appeal. “Penalties do carry over to the following season and follow a player when transferring,” the statement read. “There is no appeal process for college football players ejected for fighting.”

Kelly said he was 20 minutes late to his radio show Thursday because he was on the phone with SEC commissioner Greg Sankey and the NCAA discussing Haulcy’s status.

“It’s unfortunate,” Kelly said. “We can’t sit here and complain because the decision’s been made, so let’s move on.”

Earlier Thursday, Kelly told reporters that LSU was still “waiting for clarification” on Haulcy’s eligibility. “We were informed on his situation on Wednesday, so we’ll see where that ends up,” Kelly said.

“We’re practicing him, preparing to play him, and we’ll wait for further guidance. You hope that common sense plays a big role in this.”

LSU to Lean on Backups Against Clemson

LSU will still have safety Tamarcus Cooley, an NC State transfer, available for the full game against Clemson. Cooley was involved in a fight in his final game last season against East Carolina in the Military Bowl but was not ejected.

With Haulcy sidelined for the first half, LSU will turn to sophomore Dashawn Spears, fifth-year senior Jardin Gilbert, or junior Javien Toviano to fill the starting role at safety.

Haulcy and Cooley had been projected as LSU’s starting safeties against Clemson, meaning the Tigers will need to adjust their defensive backfield strategy early in the season opener.