LSU HC Brian Kelly makes bold claims about Tigers ahead of 2024 CFB season during SEC Media Days

LSU Tigers head coach Brian Kelly took the stage at SEC Media Days in Dallas, setting the tone for the 2024 college football season. LSU’s season opener is on Sept. 1 against Southern Cal in Las Vegas, kicking off at 7:30 ET on ABC.

Kelly, with a 20-7 record in his two seasons at LSU, made bold claims during SEC Media Days and said:

"This will be the deepest team we've had,” Brian Kelly said. “In Year 3, I’ve had really good success (getting the team) to be the most accountable they've been. And that's usually been pretty good at my previous stops."

Kelly is one of only four coaches in SEC history to win at least 10 games in each of his first two seasons. With 186 career wins, he ranks third among active FBS head coaches. Last season, LSU finished 10-3 (6-2 SEC).

Going into this season, notable departures include QB Jayden Daniels, WR Malik Nabers and WR Brian Thomas Jr.

Looking ahead, LSU's 2024 schedule features some key games: Nov. 9 against Alabama, Nov. 16 at Florida, Nov. 23 against Vanderbilt and Nov. 30 against Oklahoma.

Brian Kelly commends three exceptional LSU players

In six weeks, the 2024 football season will kick off for coach Brian Kelly, marking his 33rd year. During SEC Media Days, Kelly spoke about remaining motivated:

“I'm still as excited as I was that first year that, I was named the head football coach at Grand Valley State,” Kelly said. “When I clearly had no idea what I was getting into. But as we go into the 2024 season at LSU, we'll be celebrating 100 years of Tiger football.”

Kelly also praised three players he is particularly proud of. Garrett Nussmeier, awaiting his chance to be the starting quarterback, is set to lead LSU’s football team in 2024.

“I brought three of our players here today that I'm very proud of… Garrett Nussmeier, who is waiting for his opportunity to be our starting quarterback… I'm excited to watch him lead our football team in 2024,” he said.

Mason Taylor, the reliable starting tight end since his freshman year, made the game-winning catch against Alabama.

“Mason Taylor is starting tight end since his freshman year when he caught the winning two-point conversion against Alabama," Kelly said. "He's been one of the most consistent players for our football team.”

Harold Perkins Jr., a defensive standout, is entering his third year, and Kelly is eager to see his impact at inside linebacker.

“Harold Perkins, who has been a mainstay for us as a playmaker on defense, going into his third year, excited to watch what he's able to bring, both at the inside linebacker position,” he said.

Reflecting on a challenging season with changes like NIL and transfers, Kelly welcomed Texas and Oklahoma to the SEC. He believes that with increased competition, his team would be tested severely and would be well-prepared for the playoffs, if they make it to the post-season.

Who do you think will shine the brightest in 2024: Garrett, Mason, or Harold? Let us know your thoughts in the comments section below!