Brian Kelly's Departure Haunts LSU as Notre Dame Reaches National Championship

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Notre Dame has clinched its first College Football Playoff National Championship berth since 1988, defeating Penn State in a thrilling 27-24 showdown. The Fighting Irish, now led by head coach Marcus Freeman, are basking in their success—but the shadow of Brian Kelly, their former head coach, looms large over the celebration.

Marcus Freeman Leads, Brian Kelly Questioned
Marcus Freeman’s leadership has revitalized Notre Dame, proving the program’s championship potential. Meanwhile, Brian Kelly, who left the Fighting Irish for LSU in 2021, is facing scrutiny. Kelly famously justified his departure by claiming Notre Dame lacked the resources to win a national championship. Freeman’s success challenges that narrative, with many questioning if Kelly’s exit was premature or misguided.
LSU’s Struggles Under Kelly

Since joining LSU, Kelly has yet to make a College Football Playoff appearance, a stark contrast to Notre Dame’s resurgence. While Kelly led the Tigers to the SEC Championship Game in his debut season, the program has since regressed, missing the CFP in subsequent years. This season, LSU faltered with a three-game losing streak, highlighting inconsistencies in Kelly’s tenure.

Transfer Portal Triumphs, but Results Lag
Kelly’s efforts to rebuild LSU through the transfer portal, including his high-profile "Million Dollar Match Challenge," have yet to yield significant results. Despite landing top talent, the Tigers have struggled to compete with elite programs. As Notre Dame thrives under Freeman, the pressure mounts on Kelly to deliver at LSU.

Mockery and Motivation
Kelly’s comments about Notre Dame’s perceived limitations have resurfaced in light of the Fighting Irish’s success. Critics, including NBC Sports’ Nicole Auerbach, have not hesitated to draw comparisons. "Notre Dame will play for a national championship in 11 days. LSU has not made the CFP since Kelly took over," Auerbach noted, amplifying the scrutiny on Kelly.

The Legacy Question
While Freeman’s coaching brilliance has silenced doubts about Notre Dame’s potential, Kelly’s legacy faces renewed examination. Can he elevate LSU to the heights he envisioned when he left South Bend? For now, the gap between the two programs is clear, leaving Kelly with much to prove as Freeman cements his status as one of college football’s brightest stars.

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