HOUSTON — Before LSU played in the Texas Bowl, coach Brian Kelly framed the game as a way for the team to start the 2025 season. It provided an ending to this year, but as non-playoff bowls often do these days, it also offered a chance to look ahead.

LSU head football coach Brian Kelly's work to rebuild the Tigers into a top SEC contender has only just begun.

Shrinking the field and secondary players making open-field tackles have been points of emphasis for Kelly all season. Without Sage Ryan or Major Burns, Gilbert was the lone safety with experience, while sophomore Toviano got his first real game time as a starter.

Garrett Nussmeier and Co. bring in a loaded offense in 2025, receiving corps preparing to make noise for the program.

Brian Kelly said that his NIL donation match challenge response from fans and donors has positioned LSU football to remain aggressive in portal.