Joel Klatt names three possible candidates for the LSU opening

The LSU Tigers coaching search is expected to be one of the most high-profile pursuits for a new football coach in recent memory. 

Following the firing of Brian Kelly over the weekend, there are a few names being floated as possible replacements. The job has long been considered among the most coveted in college football with three national championship-winning coaches in the past 17 years, which has sparked national speculation about who athletic director Scott Woodward should target next?

FOX Sports analyst Joel Klatt offered his thoughts for how LSU should make their next move on his latest podcast. He believes the school should start by reaching out to a pair of legends to see if they still have anything left in the tank. Even with Nick Saban saying he's happy being retired and Urban Meyer content on TV, Klatt wants LSU to “Make them both say 'No'.”

After getting shot down by Saban and Meyer, the next call should be to a thriving Big Ten coach, according to Klatt. While he seems to be building a dynasty at Oregon, would Dan Lanning go back to the SEC? 

"He obviously has a past in the SEC, and he’s been successful there as a coordinator of the national championship-winning Georgia Bulldogs in 2021,” Klatt said. “He recruits well out of the portal, he recruits well out of high school, he’s got great energy. Dan Lanning is a home run.”

My thoughts on LSU firing Brian Kelly plus who they should call first! Plus my updated Top 10 @JoelKlattShow https://t.co/TNLDS5Z2wz

Lanning has taken the Ducks to new heights, but there is a different level of competitive edge down south in college football's biggest conference. If LSU is able to pull off hiring a coach like Lanning, the move would likely command upwards of $15 million annually to make the jump. One name, past the three previously mentioned by Klatt, is Ole Miss coach Lane Kiffin. Another viable option who is already in the SEC and exudes a ton of offensive creativity. 

However, just like Lanning, would the up and coming head coach move away from what he's building to take on another project at LSU? With a rich recruiting base and national brand, the next hire will face tough expectations. But it's also one of college football’s best opportunities.

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• Cam Newton nearly comes to blows with a mascot on ESPN
• Paul Finebaum remains sold on one name for Florida opening
• UNC fans think Bill Belichick resigned to join Duke's coaching staff because of a satirical story