Coach -

LSU enters 2025 at a crossroads—armed with a steady hand at quarterback in Garrett Nussmeier and a reloaded defense led by Harold Perkins Jr., but still chasing the consistency needed to win the SEC.

Brian Kelly’s Tigers are built on balance: explosive receivers, disruptive pass rushers, and a system that can win shootouts or grind it out.

That balance shows up in how LSU attacks through the air. Wide receivers coach Cortez Hankton highlights the efficiency of stack and bunch formations, especially when paired with concepts like the Corner Option.

Video: Corner Option

How it stresses defenses:

• The Corner Option gives the receiver a three-way go—break inside if the middle is vacated, sit down in zone at six yards, or break outside against man coverage.

• It keeps the route tree consistent for the rest of the formation, reducing confusion while forcing defenders into tough leverage situations.

• By varying leverage reads, LSU can generate explosive plays without overcomplicating the scheme.

As Hankton explains, receivers must win one-on-one matchups but also have the freedom to adjust routes based on coverage. That flexibility turns simple structures into layered threats, stressing defenders at every level.

LSU 2025 Outlook

The Tigers have the weapons to compete for the SEC crown. Nussmeier’s steady play, paired with a deep receiving corps and an improving defense, gives LSU a real shot to return to national prominence. Success hinges on line play and defensive consistency, but the blueprint is there for another run into November with championship stakes on the line.

—Coach Grabowski & The CoachesClinic Team

Other Clinics from the LSU Staff:

Cultivating a Culture of Excellence - Frank Wilson

The Progression: Teaching Run and Pass Game - Brad Davis

Gap Scheme Variation with Screens and Run Action - Alex Atkins

1st & 2nd Down Pressures - Noah Joseph

Kickoff Base Install and Skills + Drills - Aman Anand