The search for Brian Kelly's replacement at LSU is already off to a tumultuous start. Governor Jeff Landry has inserted himself directly in the middle of the process, and has taken multiple shots at LSU athletic director Scott Woodward. LSU is still among the best coaching gigs in all of college football, but the power dynamics at play may be enough to deter potential candidates away.
Latest confusion makes LSU's coaching hire process look even more dysfunctional
As the search for a new head coach gets underway, lists of potential hires have been making the rounds of social media. Along with the political sideshow, there are other reasons why a coach may not want to leave their current position for LSU. Here are 4 potential candidates that are currently coaching at their respective alma maters, which would make it unlikely that they choose to abandon their current positions.
Jeff Brohm, Louisville
Jeff Brohm isn't listed on most LSU hot boards, but it's a name that has been floated around. Currently in his 3rd season at Louisville, Brohm is one of the most well-respected head coaches in college football. He's led the Cardinals to a 25-9 overall record during his tenure, which includes a 15-5 mark in ACC play. The Cardinals are 6-1 this season and picked up a massive win over No. 2 Miami FL a few weeks ago. Brohm is notorious for pulling big upsets against top-5 teams, a theme that has continued at Louisville since his days at Purdue.
Kenny Dillingham, Arizona State
An Arizona native and ASU alum, Kenny Dillingham has quickly turned Arizona State into a national title contender. He led the Sun Devils to a Big 12 title and a trip to the College Football Playoff last season. At age 35, he is one of the brightest young minds in the country. Along with LSU, his named has been discussed for other power conference jobs such as Penn State and Florida. Given his strong Arizona ties, it's likely that Dillingham won't leave his alma mater unless the situation is too good to pass up.
Clark Lea, Vanderbilt
Clark Lea and the Vanderbilt Commodores are proving that last season wasn't a fluke. Lea led the Commodores to their first winning season since 2013 last season, and collected the program's first-ever win over a No. 1-ranked team with Vandy's 40-35 win over Alabama on Oct. 5. This season, Lea has Vandy ranked No. 9 in this week's AP Poll as they prepare for a massive game at No. 20 Texas on Saturday. It's easy to see Lea's passion for turning the Vanderbilt program into a contender on a yearly basis, so it would be a bit surprising to see him leave Nashville soon.
Brent Key, Georgia Tech
Brent Key has the Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets with an undefeated 8-0 record so far this season. They are one of the best stories in college football, and Key is a rising star in the coaching ranks. Key has ties to the SEC, as he was Nick Saban's offensive line coach at Alabama from 2016-18. Key inked a 5-year extension with the Yellow Jackets last December, which is set to keep him in Atlanta through the 2029 season.