Following the dismissal of Brian Kelly, LSU has appointed Frank Wilson as the interim head coach. This decision comes after a difficult season for the Tigers, highlighted by losses to ranked opponents. Wilson, who has a significant history with LSU, will lead the team as they face the No. 4 Alabama Crimson Tide at Bryant-Denny Stadium in Tuscaloosa, Alabama on November 8, 2025.
Interim Coach Frank Wilson: A Brief Overview
Frank Wilson assumes the interim head coaching role for the final four games of the 2025 season. Before this appointment, he served as the associate head coach and running backs coach under Kelly. He had previously been a part of the LSU coaching staff from 2010 to 2015, where he built a strong reputation in recruiting.
Coaching Background
Wilson’s coaching career began at Nicholls State as a student assistant in 1996. His experience spans across the high school and college levels:
- 1997-1999: Karr High School (Assistant Coach)
- 2000-2003: O.P. Walker High School (Head Coach)
- 2005-2007: Ole Miss (Running Backs and Special Teams Coach)
- 2008: Southern Miss (Running Backs Coach, Recruiting Coordinator)
- 2009: Tennessee (Wide Receivers Coach)
- 2010-2015: LSU (Running Backs Coach, Recruiting Coordinator)
- 2016-2019: UTSA (Head Coach)
- 2020-2021: McNeese State (Head Coach)
- 2022-2025: LSU (Associate Head Coach, Running Backs Coach)
- 2025: LSU (Interim Coach)
Career Statistics
Wilson’s overall head coaching record stands at 26 wins and 40 losses. His record year-by-year is as follows:
| Year | Team | Record |
|---|---|---|
| 2016 | UTSA | 6-7 |
| 2017 | UTSA | 6-5 |
| 2018 | UTSA | 3-9 |
| 2019 | UTSA | 4-8 |
| 2020 | McNeese State | 3-4 |
| 2021 | McNeese State | 4-7 |
Challenges Ahead for LSU
Wilson faces a critical challenge in reviving a struggling LSU season. After an unbeaten start, the Tigers dropped three of their last four games, which resulted in Kelly’s exit. The remaining schedule includes tough matches against SEC rivals: Alabama, Arkansas, and No. 18 Oklahoma. LSU hopes to secure at least one victory to achieve bowl eligibility for the fourth consecutive year.
Looking Forward
As the Tigers prepare for their upcoming rivalry game against Alabama, Frank Wilson’s leadership will be crucial. His prior experience and knowledge of the program are expected to guide LSU through a turbulent period. Wilson aims to foster teamwork and resilience, crucial elements as the Tigers approach the season’s climax.
