LSU football is set to take on Alabama tomorrow in what could be one of the top games of the 2023 college football season. When it comes to the matchup, winning and losing is what matters most. However, for coach Brian Kelly, his job means so much more than what your record says you are.
There’s more to the job than just winning and losing for coach Brian Kelly
When talking about and watching college football, it’s so easy to forget what exactly you’re watching.
Every Saturday, a group of college athletes go out and compete at one of the highest levels in sports. Additionally, they aren’t just athletes. They’re students looking to grow as human beings.
For coach Brian Kelly, this has always been one of the biggest aspects of the game for him, and 2023 is no different for him. He understands that it’s not always about wins and losses, but instead, sometimes it’s important to take time to think about growth both on and off the field.
“I have a vision for our program, and the vision includes more than just winning,” Kelly said at Monday’s media availability. “It includes developing excellence both on and off the field. And so, we’re certainly not there yet. We have to continue to grow relative to the identity of our football team.
“I know I’m hired and fired on wins and losses, but I’ve never really worried about that. This is the fifth program I’ve taken over, and I’ve always built the program based upon excellence in the classroom and on the football field.”
While this might not immediately sound like a winning formula, that’s never been something coach Brian Kelly has struggled with. Earlier this year, the veteran coach achieved his 300th career win, dating back to the early 90s when he started at Division II Grand Valley State.
“I don’t think I’ve ever looked at it that way. And it helps when you have a 10-year contract, too,” Kelly joked. “Again, that’s not been my motivation in any way, or shape, or fashion. It’s been much more about developing a championship program in all of those facets first and foremost.”
As much as coach Brian Kelly talks about it not being all about winning, he’s sure to give tomorrow’s game everything he has. With a win versus Alabama, it would be No. 301 for him, and the 2023 LSU football team would be well on their way to yet another excellent season.
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