Booger McFarland says Brian Kelly won’t be on the hot seat even if LSU loses to Clemson
By Luke Greco
Published:
LSU has lost 5 straight season-openers, with the last 3 coming under Brian Kelly. LSU’s game at Clemson is not just a chance to knock off the No. 4 team in the country but also a chance to break the 5-year streak of losing season openers.
It is a huge game for LSU, and many believe that if Kelly were to drop another season opener, it would put him on the hot seat. However, former LSU defensive tackle Booger McFarland doesn’t think Kelly’s seat is nearly as hot as some are making it out to be if LSU were to lose to Clemson.
McFarland cites Kelly’s contract as a big reason why he is not on the hot seat.
“I don’t think many programs, and LSU is not in the many, can afford a buyout of what it is,” McFarland told Greg McElroy on Always College Football this week.
In 2021, Kelly signed a 10-year deal worth $95 million to become the head coach of the LSU Tigers. As of Dec. 1, 2024, Kelly’s buyout is $61,738,333. LSU would owe Kelly 90% of his total remaining salary if it was to fire him without cause.
No. 9 LSU versus No. 4 Clemson is scheduled for Aug. 30 at 7:30 p.m. ET.
