The college football landscape is abuzz with a surprising name that has resurfaced after a brief, tumultuous stint at LSU. Brian Kelly, once a fixture in the SEC, was dismissed by the Tigers in 2025 after a 5‑3 start to the season, ending a four‑year tenure that produced a 34‑14 record. Now, the veteran strategist is carving out a new identity in front of the camera, serving as the voice of Mountain West matchups on CBS.
The Coaching Carousel
Kelly’s résumé reads like a masterclass in longevity. Over 22 seasons as a head coach, he compiled a 200‑76 record, a testament to his ability to rebuild programs and sustain success. At LSU, his impact was immediate, guiding the Tigers to four consecutive winning seasons before the abrupt departure that left fans and analysts questioning the future.
His current gig on CBS may seem a departure, but it has placed him squarely in the conversation among pundits. Analyst Josh Pate recently floated the idea that Kelly could be the next head coach at USC, should the Trojans decide to part ways with Lincoln Riley. Pate argues that Kelly’s blend of experience and proven track record makes him a natural fit for a program hungry for a resurgence.
Riley, who took the helm at USC in 2022, boasts a 35‑18 record but has struggled to replicate the early promise that saw his team in the playoff conversation during his inaugural year. The Trojans’ recent performances have sparked debate about whether a change is imminent, and the prospect of luring Kelly adds a layer of intrigue to an already heated rivalry with Notre Dame.
If Kelly were to make the move to Los Angeles, the ripple effects would extend beyond the field. A potential matchup against his former team, the Fighting Irish, would inject fresh drama into a historic rivalry, while also reshaping the competitive dynamics of the Pac‑12. For now, the speculation remains just that — speculation — but the narrative underscores how quickly a coach’s fortunes can pivot in the high‑stakes world of college football.