Ed Orgeron Returns to LSU as Bench Coach, Declares “I Am Coming Back to Revive the Team and See Us Win Again”

Baton Rouge, Louisiana — In a highly anticipated and emotional announcement, Ed Orgeron, the former LSU Tigers head football coach, has officially rejoined the LSU Tigers football team as a bench coach. His return marks a new chapter for a team and fan base eager to relive the glory days of 2019 when Orgeron led LSU to a national championship. In an exclusive interview with NBC News, Orgeron declared his mission clearly: “I am coming back to revive the team and see us win again.”

Orgeron’s unexpected decision to return to LSU, not as a head coach but in a supporting role, has sparked significant excitement and curiosity. Fans and analysts alike are wondering what impact this change will have on LSU’s football program, and whether Orgeron’s leadership will once again propel the Tigers to the heights they reached during his tenure as head coach.

A Legacy of Success at LSU

Ed Orgeron’s association with LSU is storied, to say the least. After taking over as head coach in 2016, Orgeron quickly became a fan favorite due to his fiery personality, relentless recruiting, and commitment to creating a dominant football team. His crowning achievement came in 2019, when he led the Tigers to a historic 15-0 season and a national championship victory against Clemson in the College Football Playoff National Championship Game.

Under Orgeron’s leadership, LSU transformed into one of the most formidable football programs in the nation. Quarterback Joe Burrow’s record-breaking season, which saw him win the Heisman Trophy and lead the Tigers to their first national championship in 12 years, is widely regarded as one of the greatest college football seasons of all time. Orgeron’s coaching staff, including offensive coordinator Joe Brady and defensive coordinator Dave Aranda, played an integral part in the team’s success, but it was Orgeron’s leadership that helped bring it all together.

However, after the highs of 2019, the following seasons proved to be more tumultuous. In 2021, following a disappointing season, Orgeron and LSU parted ways. Despite the challenges in the years following his championship win, Orgeron’s legacy at LSU remained undeniable. The 2019 season and his ability to rebuild a once-struggling program earned him a place in the hearts of LSU fans forever.

The Surprise Return: Orgeron’s Bench Coach Role

The announcement of Orgeron’s return to LSU came as a surprise to many, especially given his departure in 2021. However, sources close to the program say that Orgeron had been in discussions with the LSU athletic department for some time about finding a role within the program. After months of talks, Orgeron has agreed to rejoin the Tigers as a bench coach, a role that will allow him to work closely with the team’s current coaching staff while still offering his expertise and mentorship to the players.

This return is seen as a way to inject new energy and wisdom into the program. Although the head coach position is currently occupied by Brian Kelly, who took over in 2022, Kelly has made it clear that Orgeron’s experience and knowledge are valuable assets for the Tigers. “Ed has built something special here, and we want to make sure that the program continues to grow,” Kelly said in a statement. “He’s a great resource, and we’re excited to have him back in any capacity.”

Orgeron’s new role will allow him to work on the sideline during games, focusing on motivating players, offering guidance, and providing a wealth of insight to both the team and coaching staff. While the specifics of his duties are still being worked out, it’s clear that Orgeron’s presence will be felt immediately.

“I Am Coming Back to Revive the Team”

In his first press conference after being named the new bench coach, Orgeron spoke passionately about his return to LSU. “I’m excited to be back home. This is where I belong,” Orgeron said, his voice thick with emotion. “I want to help this team get back to the top, to where we were in 2019. We’ve got a lot of talent here, and I know what it takes to win at LSU. I’m coming back to revive the team and see us win again.”

Orgeron’s words echoed the sentiment of many LSU fans, who have been eager to see the team return to its championship form. Since his departure, LSU has had its ups and downs under Brian Kelly, who is still working to build his version of the Tigers. While Kelly has shown promise with solid recruiting and competitive performances, the shadow of Orgeron’s success in 2019 has lingered. Many fans still believe that Orgeron is the key to unlocking the Tigers’ full potential.

“It’s good to see Coach O back,” said a longtime LSU fan in Baton Rouge. “We’ll always love him for what he did in 2019. He brought LSU back to the top, and we know he can do it again. It’s great to see him back in any capacity.”

A Focus on Player Development

One of the key aspects of Orgeron’s return is his emphasis on player development. Throughout his career, Orgeron has been known for his ability to connect with players on a personal level, something that was particularly evident during the 2019 season. He has a knack for getting the best out of his athletes, both on and off the field.

Orgeron’s experience with developing talent is crucial for LSU as they work to build a championship-caliber team once again. With the current roster filled with young, talented players, Orgeron’s leadership could be the catalyst that helps them unlock their potential.

“I’ve always been a big believer in hard work and discipline, but also in relationships with the players,” Orgeron explained. “I want to help these young guys become not just better football players but better men. We’re going to build something special again at LSU, and I’m here to make sure we get there.”

The Road Ahead for LSU

While Orgeron’s return is sure to provide a boost to LSU, the road ahead remains challenging. The SEC, with its wealth of powerhouse programs like Alabama, Georgia, and Tennessee, remains one of the most competitive conferences in college football. LSU will need to continue recruiting top-tier talent, improve its offensive and defensive schemes, and find the right balance between experienced leadership and youthful energy.

Orgeron’s return, however, will undoubtedly add an extra layer of enthusiasm and confidence to the program. His presence on the sidelines, his experience in high-pressure situations, and his unrelenting desire to win make him an invaluable asset to LSU. Whether he is coaching players, offering strategic insights, or motivating the team, his impact is sure to be felt throughout the season.

For LSU fans, the return of Ed Orgeron represents a sense of hope and optimism. After years of uncertainty, the Tigers are once again in the hands of a coach who has proven he knows how to win at the highest level. While Orgeron’s role as bench coach is not as high-profile as his previous position as head coach, his return to LSU signifies that the Tigers are ready to make another run at greatness.

“We’ve got a lot of work to do, but I believe in this team,” Orgeron said, with a determined look in his eyes. “I’m here to help them get where they need to go. Together, we’re going to make LSU football proud again.”