In a significant shakeup within LSU’s football program, the university announced on Monday, October 27, 2025, the dismissal of offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach Joe Sloan. This move comes just a day after the firing of head coach Brian Kelly, marking a decisive step in the administration’s efforts to address the team’s underperformance this season.
Joe Sloan joined LSU in 2022 as the quarterbacks coach under Brian Kelly’s leadership. His tenure was marked by notable achievements, including the development of quarterback Jayden Daniels, who went on to win the Heisman Trophy in 2023. Sloan’s success continued with Garrett Nussmeier, who had an impressive 2024 season, throwing for over 4,000 yards and 29 touchdowns. Following the departure of Mike Denbrock to Notre Dame, Sloan was promoted to offensive coordinator in January 2024. Under his guidance, LSU’s offense ranked among the top 10 nationally in passing offense and top 25 in total offense. However, the 2025 season has seen a significant decline in offensive performance. The Tigers currently rank 14th in the SEC in total offense, 12th in scoring, and last in rushing offense, averaging just 106.3 yards per game on the ground. This downturn in performance, coupled with a recent 49–25 loss to Texas A&M, led to mounting pressure on the coaching staff.
The decision to part ways with Sloan was influenced by a combination of factors. Athletic Director Scott Woodward reportedly had a “very tense” meeting with Brian Kelly following the Texas A&M loss, during which disagreements arose over staff changes. Woodward insisted on the dismissal of Sloan, while Kelly proposed alternative adjustments. Ultimately, Woodward’s position prevailed, leading to both Kelly’s and Sloan’s exits from the program. New York Post
In the wake of Sloan’s dismissal, LSU has appointed Alex Atkins, the team’s tight ends coach and run game coordinator, as the interim offensive coordinator. Atkins brings a wealth of experience to the role, having served as the offensive coordinator at Florida State from 2022 to 2024, where he led a high-powered offense that averaged 36.1 points per game in 2022. Prior to his tenure at Florida State, Atkins was the offensive line coach at Tulane and the offensive coordinator at Charlotte. His diverse background and previous success in coordinating offenses position him as a strong candidate to revitalize LSU’s struggling unit. Reuters
Additionally, analyst Tim Rattay has been tasked with coaching the quarterbacks for the remainder of the season. Rattay’s familiarity with the team’s personnel and offensive schemes will be crucial as the Tigers look to regain their offensive prowess.
The changes within LSU’s coaching staff reflect a broader trend in college football, where programs are making bold decisions to address underperformance. With a 5–3 record and a challenging SEC schedule ahead, LSU’s administration is signaling a commitment to restoring the program to its former glory. The coming weeks will be critical in assessing the impact of these coaching changes and determining the future direction of LSU football.
