LSU Dismisses AD Scott Woodward Amid Governor Landry Criticism Over Football Contracts

Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry has publicly criticized LSU Athletic Director Scott Woodward, blaming him for mismanaging the football program and negotiating an excessively costly $100 million contract with former head coach Brian Kelly, who was fired after just over three seasons. Landry has taken control of the coaching search away from Woodward, stating that Woodward will not be involved in selecting the next LSU football coach and even suggested that President Donald Trump could choose the replacement instead. Woodward's contract buyout will cost LSU over $6 million, adding to a $53 million liability related to Kelly's dismissal, which Landry says is a burden on taxpayers, especially amid ticket price hikes during disappointing seasons. Landry's intervention reflects his concern over financial stewardship and accountability, emphasizing that future coaching contracts must include performance metrics to avoid "rewarding failure." The LSU Board of Supervisors will now oversee the search for the new head coach, with Woodward's future at LSU uncertain following his immediate dismissal. This situation has sparked debate over governance and the role of political figures in university athletic decisions, with some warning that outside interference could deter top coaching candidates.