After a .500 2020, LSU Makes Coaching Changes With Hope to Rekindle 2019 Magic

Our series of SEC football previews continues with the LSU Tigers. After being crowned National Champions in 2019, the Tigers took a step back and finished 5-5. Tigers coach Ed Orgeron offers an update on the state of the program.

The Tigers had several coaching changes this offseason. Most notably, Orgeron is bringing in offensive coordinator Jake Peetz and passing game coordinator D.J. Mangas. The two are disciples of Carolina Panthers offensive coordinator Joe Brady, who was LSU’s offensive coordinator when they won the National title two years ago. Orgeron unveils what the 2021 offense could look like.

Oregeron believes he has two “championship caliber” quarterbacks in sophomore Max Johnson and redshirt senior Myles Brennan. The two are expected to compete for the starting job.

Defensively, the unit is highlighted by first team defensive back Derek Stringley, second team defensive lineman Ali Gaye, and the return of defensive tackle Neil Farrell. Orgeron says this year’s secondary will need to eliminate big plays.

LSU’s begins its 2021 schedule with a trip to the Rose Bowl to play UCLA. Orgeron will then come home to square off against his son Cody, who is the starting quarterback at McNeese State.

The Tigers SEC slate features its SEC West opponents, the annual rivalry game with Florida, and a visit to Kentucky. Mizzou beat LSU 45-41 last year. The two schools will not meet again until 2023 unless it’s the in the SEC Championship game, or College Football Playoff.