Early Years of LSU Football
LSU's football program began in 1893, and the first head coach was a man named L. D. McGhee. The early years were characterized by a lack of organization and resources, but as the program began to grow, so did the ambitions of its coaches.
Key Early Coaches
1. L. D. McGhee (1893-1894)
- Record: 3-1
- Notable Achievement: First head coach of the program, establishing the foundation for future teams.
2. J. A. McGhee (1898-1899)
- Record: 5-5
- Notable Achievement: Helped to formalize the football program, emphasizing the importance of strategy.
3. W. A. Hart (1900-1901)
- Record: 3-5
- Notable Achievement: Increased the number of games and began to foster local rivalries.
These early coaches laid the groundwork for what would eventually become a powerhouse in college football.
The Rise of LSU Football
As the 20th century progressed, LSU began to establish itself as a formidable opponent in college football. The coaching staff saw a mix of local legends and nationally recognized figures stepping into leadership positions.
Notable Coaches in the Mid-20th Century
1. Paul Dietzel (1955-1961)
- Record: 57-23-7
- Notable Achievement: Led LSU to its first national championship in 1958, utilizing the innovative "Three-Platoon System."
2. Charlie McClendon (1962-1979)
- Record: 137-59-7
- Notable Achievement: A long tenure that included multiple conference titles and significant bowl game appearances. His teams were known for their toughness and discipline.
3. Jerry Stovall (1980-1983)
- Record: 25-18-3
- Notable Achievement: A former player who brought a sense of continuity but struggled to replicate the success of his predecessors.
These coaches helped to build the reputation of LSU as a competitive force in the Southeastern Conference (SEC).
Modern Era Coaching Changes
The 1980s and 1990s brought a mix of success and challenges for the LSU Tigers. The coaching changes during this period were frequent, reflecting the high expectations of the program.
Key Figures from the 1980s and 1990s
1. Mike Archer (1987-1990)
- Record: 27-12-1
- Notable Achievement: Led the Tigers to a Peach Bowl victory in 1989 but faced struggles in maintaining consistency.
2. Curley Hallman (1991-1994)
- Record: 16-28
- Notable Achievement: Faced criticism for poor performance; his tenure was marked by a lack of direction.
3. Gerry DiNardo (1995-1999)
- Record: 32-7
- Notable Achievement: Revived the program with a solid recruiting class and led LSU to its first SEC Championship in 1996.
4. Nick Saban (2000-2004)
- Record: 48-16
- Notable Achievement: Secured LSU's second national championship in 2003. His success at LSU propelled him to a legendary status, later achieving great success at Alabama.
This era was pivotal as it set the stage for the resurgence of LSU football in the new millennium.
The Championship Years
The early 2000s marked a renaissance for LSU football, culminating in multiple national championships and a strong SEC presence.
Key Coaches in the 21st Century
1. Les Miles (2005-2016)
- Record: 114-34
- Notable Achievement: Won the national championship in 2007 and secured multiple SEC titles. Known for his charismatic personality and ability to recruit top talent.
2. Ed Orgeron (2016-2021)
- Record: 51-20
- Notable Achievement: Led LSU to a historic national championship in 2019 with one of the most dominant teams in college football history, featuring Heisman Trophy winner Joe Burrow.
3. Brian Kelly (2022-Present)
- Record: Early results show promise with strong recruiting and competitive play. Kelly, previously at Notre Dame, aims to build on the legacy established by his predecessors.
These coaches not only achieved on-field success but also cultivated a culture of excellence and resilience within the program.
Impact of LSU Head Coaches on College Football
The legacy of LSU head coaches extends beyond mere statistics. They have shaped the culture of college football in the South and have had a lasting impact on the game itself.
Contributions and Innovations
- Recruiting Power: LSU coaches have consistently brought in top-tier talent, making Baton Rouge a destination for high school athletes.
- Strategic Innovations: Coaches like Paul Dietzel and Ed Orgeron introduced innovative strategies that changed how the game is played.
- Player Development: Many LSU coaches have focused on not just athletic development but also academic support for players, encouraging a well-rounded collegiate experience.
Conclusion
The LSU head football coaches history is a rich tapestry of leadership, innovation, and resilience. From the early days of L. D. McGhee to the modern era under Brian Kelly, each coach has left an indelible mark on the program and the broader landscape of college football. Their legacies continue to inspire future generations of players and coaches, ensuring that LSU remains a powerhouse in the sport. As the program looks to the future, it does so with a deep respect for its past and a commitment to excellence on and off the field. The journey of LSU football is far from over, and its next chapter promises to be just as exciting as the ones that came before.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was the first head football coach in LSU history?
The first head football coach in LSU history was Charles O. Finley, who coached the team from 1893 to 1894.
Which LSU head coach has the most wins in the program's history?
As of October 2023, Nick Saban holds the record for the most wins as LSU head coach, with a total of 48 victories from 2000 to 2004.
What notable achievement did Les Miles accomplish during his tenure at LSU?
Les Miles led LSU to a national championship in 2007 and consistently produced top-ranked teams during his tenure from 2005 to 2016.
Who succeeded Ed Orgeron as LSU head football coach?
Brian Kelly was hired as the head football coach of LSU following Ed Orgeron's departure after the 2021 season.
Which LSU head coach was known for his 'Mad Hatter' persona?
Les Miles was famously known as the 'Mad Hatter' during his time as head coach due to his quirky personality and unconventional decisions.
In what year did LSU win its first national championship under a head coach?
LSU won its first national championship under head coach Paul Dietzel in 1958.
Who was the head coach of LSU during their undefeated season in 2019?
Ed Orgeron was the head coach during LSU's undefeated season in 2019, which culminated in a national championship victory.
Which LSU head coach had a significant impact on the school's recruiting efforts?
Nick Saban had a significant impact on LSU's recruiting efforts, helping to elevate the program's profile nationally during his tenure.
What is the longest tenure of any head football coach in LSU history?
The longest tenure of any head football coach in LSU history is held by Paul Dietzel, who coached from 1948 to 1959.
