11 New Coaches, Major Title Changes — LSU’s Staff Shakeup Explained

LSU officially announced 11 new football staff hires, and the titles tell a much bigger story than just names on a press release.

Chris Kiffin has been elevated to co-defensive coordinator and linebackers coach, a move that signals a shift in how the Tigers will deploy Blake Baker defensively in 2026. We break down what that means for LSU’s defensive structure and why this is more than just a cosmetic title change.

Sterling Lucas is officially on staff after arriving from South Carolina — and that immediately raises a major recruiting question: could five-star EDGE Dylan Stewart follow him to Baton Rouge? We dive into Lucas’ recruiting ties and how LSU could capitalize.

On offense, Kevin Smith is now officially running backs coach and associate head coach, a notable promotion that speaks volumes about his role in the program and how LSU plans to handle the RB room in the NIL and portal era.

Plus, we react to Pete Golding’s post-CFP win comments after Ole Miss beat Tulane — where he went out of his way to praise Charlie Weis Jr. That sparks an important conversation: is Ole Miss’ offensive success more about Lane Kiffin… or Charlie Weis Jr.? And what lessons can LSU take from it?

Staff structure, recruiting ripple effects, and scheme power dynamics — it’s all covered.

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