Former Alabama RB says why it was time for LSU to part ways with Brian Kelly

Sep 28, 2024; Baton Rouge, Louisiana, USA; LSU Tigers quarterback Garrett Nussmeier (13) talks to head coach Brian Kelly during warmups before a game against the South Alabama Jaguars at Tiger Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Stephen Lew-Imagn Images

Former Alabama running back, Damien Harris feels the writing was on the wall before LSU decided to part ways with Brian Kelly.

The Tigers are 5-3 in 2025 with a 2-3 record in the SEC. They are now without a head coach during a BYE week before they travel to take on No. 4 Alabama next month.

Kelly’s departure from LSU came as no surprise to Harris, who feels the LSU players did not buy into what Kelly was trying to do in Baton Rouge.

“I’m not surprised that his players don’t care what he has to say,” Harris said before Kelly’s departure news was reported on CBS Sports. “I’m not necessarily surprised that they’re not buying into whatever theatrics or political speeches he gives. They can tell. Players can see right through all of the speeches, “we got to do this, this is Louisiana State University, I’ve had success other places,” you know, blah, blah, blah. They can see right through that. If you have a coach in front of you that’s not genuine, that does not care about the players, the families, and most importantly making these the most successful young men that they can be, they see right through that. They don’t listen, they don’t play to a certain standard, and they just don’t do what you need them to do. And that’s why Brian Kelly’s in the situation that he’s in.”

Alabama and LSU are both off this week ahead of their November matchup.