LSU Football: Why Marcus Freeman may not be an option to replace Bo Pelini

LSU football is looking for a new defensive coordinator after moving on from Bo Pelini.

LSU football has been connected to a lot of names already in their search for a new defensive coordinator.

One of the popular names that’s been mentioned is Cincinnati Bearcats defensive coordinator Marcus Freeman.

Freeman, who played college football at Ohio State, has served as Cincinnati’s defensive coordinator since 2017.

This past season, the Bearcats had the No. 8 scoring defense in the nation, so it’s easy to see why he’s a potential candidate at LSU.

But I don’t expect Freeman, who is well thought of in the coaching community, to land in Baton Rouge.

That’s because Freeman reportedly turned down an NFL job last offseason (according to a report from 247Sports). Now, it’s unclear whether it was a position coach job or a defensive coordinator job, but I still think it’s noteworthy that Freeman turned down the opportunity.

A job as a linebackers coach in the NFL is probably a better job than being the defensive coordinator at Cincinnati. Either way, it shows that Freeman is committed to the Bearcats and he’s likely holding out for a head coaching job.

In fact, I wouldn’t be surprised if Freeman is banking on Luke Fickell — Cincinnati’s current head coach — getting hired at a Power-5 program and then getting the opportunity to take over as the Bearcats’ head coach.

(247Sports also noted that Freeman hasn’t interviewed with LSU at this point.)

Who should get the job as LSU football’s new defensive coordinator?

I’m a big fan of former Vanderbilt head coach Derek Mason. I love his passion and his energy. Plus he was a pretty good defensive coordinator at Stanford.

I’d say Mason would be the best hire that Orgeron could make.

As for Mason’s interest?

He recently told The Daily Advertiser that he’s had conversations with LSU.

“I have the utmost respect for Coach Orgeron,” said Mason. “I truly believe he’s an unbelievable coach. And LSU is a top five program as far as talent, resources and what it can do.”

Sounds like a guy that wouldn’t mind coaching for the Tigers.