UNFORGETTABLE 2019 SEASON: LSU to Immortalize Former Head Coach Ed Orgeron After Historic National Championship Run
The 2019 college football season will forever be etched in the annals of history as one of the most extraordinary campaigns ever witnessed, not just for LSU but for the entire landscape of collegiate athletics. At the center of this unforgettable season was Ed Orgeron, the charismatic and passionate head coach who led the Louisiana State University Tigers to a historic national championship victory, cementing his legacy as one of the greatest figures in LSU football history. Now, as the program looks to honor this monumental achievement, plans are underway to immortalize Coach Orgeron in a way befitting his contributions and the unparalleled success he brought to Baton Rouge.
Ed Orgeron’s rise to national prominence was anything but predictable. Known for his larger-than-life personality, gravelly voice, and deep Louisiana roots, Orgeron first joined LSU’s coaching staff in the early 2000s and served in various capacities, including defensive line coach and interim head coach. His initial tenure was marked by highs and lows, but his connection with the players and fans was undeniable. After a brief departure, he returned to LSU in 2016 as the interim head coach following the mid-season firing of Les Miles. It was a critical juncture for the program, one where the Tigers’ future seemed uncertain. Orgeron’s determination, straightforward leadership style, and infectious enthusiasm quickly rallied the team and the fanbase, earning him the permanent head coaching position.
The 2019 season proved to be the pinnacle of Orgeron’s coaching career and a historic milestone for LSU football. Under his leadership, the Tigers produced an offensive juggernaut that electrified college football. At the helm of this powerhouse was quarterback Joe Burrow, whose remarkable talent and poise transformed LSU into a relentless scoring machine. Burrow’s record-breaking performances and Orgeron’s masterful coaching combined to create a team that not only dominated opponents but also redefined offensive football at the collegiate level.
LSU’s 2019 campaign was a symphony of excellence, characterized by an explosive offense, a stout defense, and unwavering resilience. The Tigers finished the regular season undefeated, showcasing a perfect blend of skill, speed, and strategic brilliance. The highlight reel of the season is packed with jaw-dropping plays, come-from-behind victories, and moments of sheer dominance that left fans and analysts alike in awe. LSU’s offense set numerous NCAA records, with Burrow shattering the single-season touchdown pass and passing yardage records while capturing the Heisman Trophy in a unanimous decision — a first for an LSU player.
What truly set the 2019 LSU team apart was not only the statistical dominance but the team’s collective will to win and the culture that Orgeron cultivated. Known affectionately as “Coach O,” Orgeron’s ability to motivate, connect with his players on a personal level, and foster a family atmosphere within the program proved invaluable. The Tigers were not just a collection of elite athletes; they were a brotherhood, united by a shared goal and guided by a coach who believed in them fiercely. This spirit manifested in thrilling wins over top-ranked opponents and a relentless march through the postseason.
The journey culminated in the College Football Playoff National Championship game against Clemson, the defending champions and perennial powerhouse. This game was more than just a championship bout; it was a clash of titans and a test of willpower, preparation, and execution. LSU’s offense was unstoppable, and Burrow’s clinical precision dismantled Clemson’s vaunted defense. The Tigers’ 42-25 victory was a resounding statement — the culmination of a perfect 15-0 season and the program’s fourth national title in history.
In the aftermath of this triumph, the city of Baton Rouge erupted in celebration. Fans flooded the streets, reveling in the glory of a championship that felt decades in the making. Orgeron became an instant folk hero, his image synonymous with resilience, passion, and Louisiana pride. The victory was more than a trophy; it was a cultural moment that resonated far beyond the gridiron, lifting the spirits of an entire community and inspiring future generations of Tigers.
Recognizing the monumental impact of the 2019 season and Coach Orgeron’s pivotal role in it, LSU officials announced plans to honor the former head coach in a lasting and meaningful way. The university’s administration, athletic department, and booster organizations collaborated to design a tribute that reflects Orgeron’s legacy and the historic nature of the championship run. These plans include dedicating a statue on the LSU campus, creating a permanent exhibit in the Tiger Stadium Hall of Fame, and instituting an annual award named after Orgeron that recognizes leadership and excellence within the football program.
The statue, to be unveiled during a special ceremony attended by former players, university officials, and fans, will depict Orgeron in his signature style — wearing his trademark cap and headset, mid-cheer, embodying the passion and intensity that defined his coaching career. This monument will stand near the stadium’s main entrance, serving as a daily reminder to players and supporters of the grit, determination, and heart that fueled the 2019 championship team.
Additionally, the Hall of Fame exhibit will chronicle the entire 2019 season, featuring memorabilia, game footage, and interactive displays that celebrate the team’s achievements and Orgeron’s journey. This immersive experience will provide fans and visitors a chance to relive the highs and understand the strategic genius behind the team’s success. It will highlight not only the statistics and victories but also the human stories — the late-night practices, the team meetings, and the special bond between Orgeron and his players.
The annual Ed Orgeron Leadership Award will further ensure that his influence endures within the LSU football culture. This award, given each year to a player who exemplifies leadership, resilience, and dedication, reflects the core values that Orgeron instilled in his teams. It aims to inspire future Tigers to carry forward the legacy of hard work, loyalty, and team-first mentality that defined Orgeron’s tenure.
Ed Orgeron’s story is a testament to perseverance and the power of embracing one’s roots. His connection to Louisiana, its culture, and its people played a vital role in his success. Orgeron’s commitment to recruiting locally, nurturing homegrown talent, and maintaining an authentic, unapologetic Louisiana identity helped build a program that felt deeply connected to its community. His authenticity and relatable demeanor resonated with fans, players, and recruits alike, fostering a sense of pride and belonging that transcended the football field.
Beyond the 2019 season, Orgeron’s impact continues to be felt in the LSU football program and the broader college football landscape. His coaching philosophy — emphasizing toughness, loyalty, and passion — has become a blueprint for success. Moreover, his ability to rebuild and elevate a program during a turbulent time serves as an inspiring example of leadership under pressure. Though Orgeron stepped down as head coach following the 2021 season, his legacy at LSU remains indelible.
The 2019 LSU Tigers, under Ed Orgeron’s guidance, delivered a season that was not just about winning a national title but about creating a narrative of excellence, unity, and pride. The immortalization of Coach Orgeron is a fitting tribute to a man whose heart and soul became intertwined with the program’s most glorious chapter. His story will continue to inspire LSU players, coaches, and fans for generations, a beacon of what can be achieved with grit, passion, and a deep love for the game.
In celebrating the unforgettable 2019 season, LSU honors not just a championship team but the man who led them there — Ed Orgeron, a true legend in Tiger history whose name will forever be synonymous with glory, resilience, and the spirit of Louisiana football.
