Report: LSU to Hire Bo Pelini as Defensive Coordinator

Pelini served as DC for LSU from 2005-2007, a run that included a national championship

Per multiple reports, LSU is expected to hire current Youngstown State head coach Bo Pelini as its next defensive coordinator. 

 

Pelini served as LSU’s defensive coordinator from 2005-2007, a three year stint that included a national championship in the ‘07 season. Following that championship win, Pelini would go on to accept a head coaching job with Nebraska, where he spent seven seasons with the Cornhuskers.

While a head coach at Nebraska, Pelini went 67-27, including a 4-3 bowl record. Under Pelini in 2007, LSU’s defense was ranked No. 3 in total defense (288.8 yards per game) and No. 17 in scoring defense.

Sports Illustrated’s Ross Dellenger is reporting the annual salary will be $2.3 million, making Pelini the second highest paid assistant coach in college football. Stadium’s Brett McMurphy was the first to report the hire.

According to McMurphy’s report, coach Ed Orgeron has offered the job to Pelini and he’s expected to accept it.

NEWS: Former #Huskers coach and current Youngstown State coach Bo Pelini is expected to replace Dave Aranda as #LSU's next defensive coordinator, sources tell @SINow.

Pelini's multi-year deal will pay him around $2M a year. He served as DC under Les Miles from 2005-07.

— Ross Dellenger (@RossDellenger) January 27, 2020

A native of Youngstown, Ohio, Pelini had been the head coach at Youngstown State since 2015. Pelini and the university officially parted ways Monday afternoon with Pelini releasing the following statement on returning to LSU.

"The opportunity to return to LSU is truly unique," Pelini said. "Culturally, with my prior experience at LSU, I know it is a great fit for me."

Orgeron was asked in a recent interview on Baton Rouge radio’s “Off the Bench” about the vacant defensive coordinator and passing game coordinator job.

“We have a big selection of defensive coordinators and passing game coordinators,” Orgeron said. “Obviously, it's going to be bring the best to LSU, No. 1. No. 2, it's going to be a great fit with our culture. There's a lot of guys that want to be here. We're looking at some great guys. My aim is to get better. I always want to get better in choosing coaches, it’s going to be a process and I’m looking forward to it.