LSU Shuts Down Saban Rumors Amid Coaching Search

The LSU football program has once again found itself in transition. After firing head coach Brian Kelly, the Tigers are in search of new leadership to restore stability and success to a program that has struggled to meet expectations in recent years. Despite fielding talented rosters, LSU has fallen short of its lofty goals, prompting the university to move on from the Kelly era after what many have described as a turbulent tenure.

Amid the uncertainty, rumours began circulating this week about a potential return of a familiar face. NBA legend and LSU alumnus Shaquille O’Neal fueled speculation when he claimed to have heard “through the grapevine” that LSU had been in contact with Nick Saban about the opening. Saban, of course, is one of the most successful coaches in college football history — and a former LSU head coach who delivered the Tigers’ 2003 national championship before departing for the NFL.

For fans, the idea of Saban returning to Baton Rouge carried an undeniable allure. His name alone evokes memories of a dominant LSU era and national prominence that set the stage for future success. However, as quickly as the rumour spread, it was put to rest by those inside the program.

Interim athletic director Verge Ausberry directly addressed the speculation, clarifying that while he and Saban maintain a close friendship, the legendary coach is not coming back to football. Ausberry added that Saban’s wife, Terry, has no interest in seeing him return to the sidelines — effectively closing the door on the fantasy of a second Saban stint in Baton Rouge.

1. “No Way He’s Coming Back”

Speaking on ESPN 104.5 Baton Rouge, Ausberry was candid in his dismissal of the Saban talk. “Nick Saban and I have a standing conversation probably every two to three weeks,” Ausberry explained. “We’re good friends, first of all, and a person that I admire a lot … but no way he’s coming back to football, OK? Mrs. Terry’s not going to let him. So, that’s not going to happen. Let’s get that out the way soon.” His comments reflect both personal familiarity and respect for Saban, while simultaneously putting an end to any hope of a comeback. “If he was and he was interested,” Ausberry joked, “I’d go drive over there and pick him up right now and bring him back.” The statement underscored how highly LSU’s leadership still regards Saban — but also that the program’s future lies elsewhere. Saban, who retired earlier this year after a storied run at Alabama, is one of the most decorated coaches in college football history, having won seven national championships — six with Alabama and one with LSU. His departure from the sport has left a noticeable void, and his name inevitably surfaces whenever major programs face uncertainty. For LSU, however, the focus must shift to identifying a new direction. With Saban officially out of the picture, Ausberry and the athletic department face the difficult task of finding a coach capable of restoring competitiveness to one of college football’s most demanding environments.

2. Searching for Stability After a Rough Season

While the coaching rumours have dominated headlines, LSU’s on-field struggles remain a pressing concern. The Tigers entered the 2025 season with optimism after a promising recruiting cycle, but the results have fallen flat. Their early-season victory over Clemson appeared to be a statement win — yet Clemson’s subsequent collapse revealed that the game provided little indication of LSU’s true standing. Quarterback Garrett Nussmeier, once considered a dark-horse Heisman contender, has been inconsistent, and the Tigers’ offense has lacked rhythm for much of the year. On the defensive side, LSU has regressed after showing flashes of improvement early in the season. With multiple conference losses, the team’s postseason hopes now hang by a thread. Interim staff members have emphasized keeping players focused amid the off-field distractions. The program is determined to close the season strong, not only to salvage pride but also to attract high-profile coaching candidates who will see potential in the roster’s talent and depth. Up next, LSU faces Alabama — a matchup loaded with history and emotion, especially given the week’s rumours involving Saban. A strong showing in Tuscaloosa could give the Tigers some much-needed momentum and restore a bit of confidence to a frustrated fan base.

3. The Road Ahead for the Tigers

For LSU, the search for its next head coach represents more than just filling a vacancy — it’s a chance to redefine the program’s culture after years of volatility. Brian Kelly’s tenure was marked by inconsistency and unmet expectations, and university leaders now find themselves at a crossroads between tradition and renewal. The Tigers’ next coach will inherit a program with all the ingredients for success: elite facilities, one of the nation’s most passionate fan bases, and access to Louisiana’s deep recruiting pool. But with the SEC becoming increasingly competitive, LSU’s margin for error continues to shrink. Finding a coach who can handle that pressure while reestablishing LSU as a perennial playoff contender will be no small task. Names such as Mike Norvell, Lane Kiffin, and Dan Lanning have already surfaced in media speculation, but the athletic department has yet to confirm any official interviews. Despite the noise surrounding the search, LSU’s leadership appears focused on the long term. For now, the Tigers are simply looking to finish the season with dignity — and perhaps find signs of the stability that’s been missing since the Saban years.