As he returns to the LS, former head coach Edward James Orgeron Jr. declares, “I am coming back to revive the team and see us win again.”

The world of college football is always full of surprises, and perhaps none have been more intriguing than the recent announcement of former LSU head coach Edward James “Ed” Orgeron Jr.’s return to Baton Rouge. After a tumultuous departure in 2021 following a national championship win in 2019, Orgeron is back, and this time, his sights are set on restoring LSU football to its former glory.

“I am coming back to revive the team and see us win again,” Orgeron declared in his much-anticipated return to LSU, a statement that has reverberated throughout the college football community. His words bring hope to a fanbase eager for success after a few challenging seasons following his departure. But what does this announcement mean for LSU? How will Orgeron’s return impact the team, the program, and the passionate fans that have stood by the Tigers for decades? Let’s dive into this exciting chapter in LSU football history.

A Roller Coaster Journey: Orgeron’s First Stint at LSU

Before we look at Orgeron’s return, it’s important to reflect on his first tenure with LSU and the remarkable impact he had on the program. When Orgeron took over as the Tigers’ head coach in 2016, it was under difficult circumstances. He was named interim head coach after the firing of Les Miles mid-season, and the initial thought was that Orgeron would simply serve as a placeholder until a more experienced head coach could be brought in. However, the passionate energy Orgeron brought to the team was undeniable.

In his first full season as head coach in 2017, Orgeron guided LSU to an impressive 9-4 record and helped build a defensive powerhouse that would define his tenure. While he was known for his fiery demeanor and his “fired-up” speeches that energized his players and fans, Orgeron also proved to be a solid recruiter, bringing in talent that would help elevate the program in the years to come.

The high point of Orgeron’s career at LSU came in 2019, when the Tigers not only won the Southeastern Conference (SEC) title but also secured the College Football Playoff National Championship. Under the leadership of quarterback Joe Burrow, who would go on to win the Heisman Trophy, LSU had one of the most explosive offenses in college football history, complemented by a defense that was tough when it needed to be.

Orgeron’s 2019 national championship was a landmark achievement for LSU. The program, which had experienced periods of success under previous coaches, was able to reach the pinnacle of college football under his guidance. Orgeron’s success in 2019 was a testament to his coaching ability, his leadership, and his ability to adapt and build a dynamic and competitive team.

A Sudden Departure and a Fall from Grace

After the highs of 2019, however, Orgeron’s time at LSU took a sharp downturn. The 2020 season was a struggle for the Tigers, with the team finishing with a disappointing 5-5 record in a year plagued by injuries, inconsistent play, and off-the-field distractions. Despite having a talented roster, LSU struggled in virtually every aspect of the game, and Orgeron found himself under increasing pressure.

The 2021 season was no different, and by mid-season, LSU administration made the decision to part ways with Orgeron. It was a tough breakup for both sides. Orgeron had been a beloved figure in Baton Rouge, beloved for his Louisiana roots, his fiery leadership, and his “Geaux Tigers!” attitude. However, his inability to replicate the success of 2019, coupled with a lack of discipline and consistency, led to his eventual departure.

LSU fans and players alike were left heartbroken and unsure about the future of the program. Orgeron’s firing marked the end of an era, and the program’s future was uncertain. But what was clear was that LSU needed a fresh start, a new leader to guide them back to glory.

The Announcement of Orgeron’s Return

Flash forward to today, and Orgeron’s return has sent shockwaves through the LSU community. On his return, he made an impassioned declaration: “I am coming back to revive the team and see us win again.” For many, these words are music to their ears. The energy, passion, and pride that Orgeron brought to LSU are qualities that many feel were lost after his departure.

Orgeron’s statement resonates with LSU’s fans, who are eager for a sense of stability and success. With an elite football program that boasts a proud history, including national championships, SEC titles, and a long list of legendary players, LSU knows what it takes to win at the highest level. But the question is: can Orgeron recapture the magic that led to the 2019 national championship, or will his return mark a new chapter in LSU football that will prove more challenging than anticipated?

The State of LSU Football: Challenges Ahead

There is no denying that LSU football faces a number of challenges as it moves forward. The SEC is a gauntlet, and LSU competes in one of the most difficult conferences in college football. Teams like Alabama, Georgia, and Florida continue to build powerful programs, and keeping up with their success requires both excellent coaching and top-tier talent.

Recruiting will be a major factor in Orgeron’s return. While LSU has a history of attracting some of the best high school football players in the country, the competition for talent has become fiercer over the years. Orgeron’s previous recruiting success was a key part of his rise at LSU, and this time around, he’ll need to capitalize on that success while also keeping up with the ever-changing landscape of college football recruiting.

Another challenge that LSU will face is adapting to changes in the college football world. The NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness) era is now in full swing, and college football programs are learning how to navigate the complex waters of players being able to profit off their names. Orgeron, who has always been known for his relationship with players, will need to ensure that LSU stays competitive in this new environment while still fostering a culture of discipline, teamwork, and success.

The current state of LSU’s roster is another challenge. While the Tigers have some talented players, they are still in the process of rebuilding after a few down years. Orgeron’s ability to develop young talent, re-establish discipline, and create a winning mentality will be crucial if LSU is to return to its former glory.

What Orgeron’s Return Means for LSU Football

The return of Orgeron could signal a new era for LSU football, one that sees the team rise again to national prominence. Orgeron’s fiery personality and ability to motivate players will undoubtedly help restore LSU’s passion for winning. His return will also be a rallying cry for fans, players, and alumni alike who have been waiting for the Tigers to reclaim their place among college football’s elite.

Orgeron’s ability to relate to the people of Louisiana, combined with his no-nonsense coaching style, could provide the spark LSU needs to revive its fortunes. The return of Orgeron also provides a sense of continuity for the program. Many players and fans remember the highs of 2019 and feel that Orgeron is the right person to guide them back to that level.

The Road to Redemption

As Orgeron sets his sights on reviving LSU football, he faces many challenges. The road to redemption will not be easy, and it will take time, effort, and discipline to rebuild the program. However, Orgeron’s determination, combined with his deep love for LSU, will be key factors in this journey.

For LSU fans, the return of Orgeron brings hope, passion, and a renewed sense of belief. Whether or not he can recreate the magic of 2019 remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: the energy and ambition surrounding LSU football is back, and Orgeron’s words echo the spirit of a team that refuses to back down.

“I am coming back to revive the team and see us win again.” It’s a statement that rings true for everyone involved with LSU football—players, coaches, and fans alike. Together, they are ready to take on the challenges ahead and restore LSU to its rightful place among the giants of college football.