LSU’s football program, at a crucial juncture, faces a significant decision with the departure of OC Mike Denbrock to Notre Dame. This marks the first major coaching change under Brian Kelly since 2021, presenting an opportunity for strategic rejuvenation. LSU Tiger Wire has listed several potential replacements, each bringing unique perspectives and proven track records to the table.
Joe Sloan: The Quarterback Whisperer Joe Sloan has emerged as a strong candidate, particularly noted for his role in developing QB Jayden Daniels into a Heisman-winning quarterback. Sloan’s reputation for nurturing talent and his innovative offensive schemes could be key in enhancing LSU’s quarterback play and overall offensive dynamism.
Cortez Hankton: The Local Veteran LSU WRs coach Cortez Hankton, with deep roots in New Orleans and extensive NFL experience, brings a unique blend of local insight and professional expertise. His nine-year coaching tenure in the SEC, capped by a national championship with Georgia, makes him a valuable contender for the OC role, offering continuity and deep understanding of the SEC landscape.
Jeff Lebby: Resilient Playmaker Jeff Lebby of the Oklahoma Sooners presents a compelling case despite a challenging first year marked by a significant transition phase for the team. Prior to Oklahoma, Lebby engineered top-10 offenses in EPA per play during stints at UCF and Ole Miss, demonstrating his ability to orchestrate high-powered offenses under varying circumstances.
Phil Longo: The Versatile Tactician Wisconsin Badgers‘ Phil Longo, after a successful tenure with North Carolina, brings a creative approach with his adaptable air raid offense. His system’s flexibility to shift between pass- and run-oriented plays, combined with consistent top-20 rankings in EPA per play, highlights his potential to innovate LSU’s offensive strategy.
Todd Monken: The Experienced Collaborator Ravens OC Todd Monken, who shares a past working relationship with Kelly, offers a blend of collegiate and professional experience. His previous stint at LSU and his current role in the NFL add a layer of tactical sophistication and adaptability to his profile.
Buster Faulkner: The Rising Strategist Lastly, Georgia Tech‘s Buster Faulkner, after a notable year improving the Yellow Jackets’ offense, stands out as a rising star. His progression from 125th to 44th in scoring offense showcases his capability to revitalize and innovate offensive strategies effectively.
The Implications for LSU The decision ahead for LSU is more than just filling a vacancy; it’s about choosing a vision for the future of the Tigers’ offense. Each candidate offers a distinct blend of expertise, style, and potential synergy with the existing coaching staff and player roster. The choice will set the tone for LSU’s offensive identity, aiming to balance innovation with the rich tradition of Tiger football.
