What's happened
LSU is facing a lawsuit from former football coach Brian Kelly, who claims he was fired without cause and is entitled to his full buyout. The university disputes this, stating Kelly was terminated for cause, which could reduce his payout. The legal battle follows Kelly's dismissal after a 5-3 season.
What's behind the headline?
The legal dispute highlights the tension between LSU and Kelly over contractual obligations. LSU claims Kelly was fired for cause, which could significantly reduce his buyout, while Kelly's lawyers argue he was terminated without cause and is owed the full amount. This case underscores the complexities of coaching contracts in college sports, especially when performance and administrative decisions collide. The involvement of political figures like Louisiana's governor indicates broader regional stakes. The outcome will likely set a precedent for future coaching terminations and buyout negotiations, emphasizing the importance of clear contractual language and university governance. Expect a protracted legal battle that could influence LSU's financial and athletic strategies moving forward.
What the papers say
The AP News article details LSU's claim that Kelly was not formally terminated until after the loss to Texas A&M and that LSU intends to fire him for cause, potentially reducing his buyout. The NY Post reports Kelly's rejection of lump-sum offers and his legal threats to secure full payment, emphasizing the ongoing dispute over his $54 million buyout. Both sources highlight the broader context of LSU's recent administrative upheaval, including the firing of athletic director Scott Woodward and political involvement from Louisiana's governor, Jeff Landry. The contrasting perspectives reveal a legal standoff driven by contractual interpretations and administrative politics, with Kelly seeking full compensation and LSU defending its right to terminate for cause.
How we got here
Brian Kelly was hired by LSU in 2021 on a 10-year, $100 million contract. During his tenure, he led the team to a 34-14 record and three bowl wins but did not reach the College Football Playoff. Kelly was fired after a loss to Texas A&M, amid ongoing disputes over his buyout and LSU's coaching decisions, with involvement from Louisiana's governor and recent administrative changes.
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Louisiana State University is a public research university in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. The university was founded in 1853 in what is now known as Pineville, Louisiana, under the name Louisiana State Seminary of Learning & Military Academy.
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Jeffrey Martin Landry is an American lawyer and politician serving as the Attorney General of Louisiana. On January 11, 2016, he succeeded Buddy Caldwell, the incumbent whom he unseated in the runoff election held on November 21, 2015.