In a stunning and unexpected move, Les Miles, the former head coach of the LSU Tigers football team, has returned to the program, albeit in a completely different capacity. The legendary coach, known for leading LSU to a national championship in 2007, has been rehired as a bench coach—a role typically associated with supporting the coaching staff in a more hands-on, technical capacity, and, notably, one that does not involve leading the team.
This unprecedented turn of events has stunned both fans and insiders alike, as Miles had been out of coaching since his controversial departure from LSU in 2016. Now, after years away from the spotlight, the 70-year-old former coach is back—but why?
The Context: Les Miles’ Legacy at LSU
Les Miles’ time at LSU was marked by tremendous highs and some equally significant lows. Taking over as head coach in 2005, Miles quickly endeared himself to fans, with his folksy charm, passionate demeanor, and an aggressive style of football that seemed to capture the essence of LSU. In 2007, Miles led the Tigers to a 12-2 record and a victory in the BCS National Championship game, defeating the Ohio State Buckeyes in one of the most memorable college football title games in recent history.
However, Miles’ tenure was also marred by his inability to consistently build upon that national title win. Although LSU remained a competitive program under his leadership, questions began to surface about his offense’s lack of innovation, especially when compared to other top-tier teams. In 2015, the Tigers were ranked No. 2 in the nation and seemed on track for another championship run. But a mid-season slump, coupled with dissatisfaction from LSU’s administration, led to his firing in 2016, a few weeks into the season after a loss to Auburn.
Since then, Miles’ reputation as a college football stalwart has been clouded by controversies. He spent a short time as head coach at Kansas from 2019 to 2020, where he struggled to turn around the struggling program before being dismissed due to allegations of inappropriate behavior toward female students during his tenure at LSU, allegations that were ultimately investigated but never substantiated.
While the investigation and his dismissal from Kansas tarnished his image to some extent, Miles remained a popular figure among LSU fans, largely due to his championship legacy and his unique persona. So, when the news broke that Les Miles was returning to LSU—not as a head coach but as a bench coach—the reaction was one of mixed emotions. Some saw it as a long-overdue opportunity to tap into his wealth of experience; others were skeptical, questioning whether it was the right move.
What Is a Bench Coach?
To understand the significance of this move, it’s important to first clarify the role of a “bench coach” in college football. Unlike the head coach, who is responsible for the overall strategy and leadership of the team, the bench coach is often more of a tactical advisor, working closely with players during practice and games to refine specific skills, assist with in-game decision-making, and help implement the game plan.
In baseball, the term “bench coach” refers to a second-in-command to the manager, someone who helps with everything from coordinating substitutions to studying the opponent’s tendencies. In football, however, it’s a less standardized role and can vary widely depending on the needs of the coaching staff and team. Bench coaches often have a deep understanding of the game and can serve as mentors to players or younger assistant coaches.
Les Miles, with his decades of experience coaching at the highest level, has much to offer in a role like this. While some may question whether he is too “old-school” or out of touch with the modern game, there is no denying his ability to motivate players and his reputation as a coach who thrives in high-pressure situations.
Why Now? What Has Changed?
Les Miles’ reentry into the LSU fold as a bench coach raises several intriguing questions: Why now? What has changed at LSU? And why is this role specifically being offered to someone like Les Miles?
1. The Changing of the Guard in LSU Football
One of the most significant factors contributing to Miles’ return is the changing landscape of LSU football. Since the departure of Miles in 2016, LSU has undergone a series of coaching changes. The hiring of Ed Orgeron in 2016 seemed like a promising development after a rocky few seasons. Orgeron, known for his passionate approach and deep ties to LSU, did manage to lead the Tigers to a national championship in 2019—a feat that Miles himself never duplicated after his 2007 win.
However, after Orgeron’s success, LSU fell back into mediocrity, culminating in his departure in 2021. Enter Brian Kelly, a seasoned coach from Notre Dame, who was brought in with the task of stabilizing the program and restoring its national relevance. Kelly is a tactician, known for his disciplined approach to coaching, but he’s still in the process of building a program that reflects his own vision. With that in mind, LSU’s administration might see Miles’ return as a way to bridge the gap between the old guard and the new, infusing Kelly’s team with the winning mentality that Miles had during his tenure.
2. The Value of Experience
Les Miles brings an incredible wealth of experience to the table, and his return can be seen as an effort to provide LSU’s young coaching staff with a seasoned voice. While Kelly and his staff are undoubtedly talented, the inclusion of Miles could provide invaluable mentorship for the younger generation of coaches. His experience coaching high-profile programs under immense pressure is something that LSU’s current staff can lean on.
Moreover, LSU’s roster is rich in talent, and while there is a foundation of high-caliber athletes, the team is still finding its identity. Having Miles around could serve as a stabilizing force in the locker room, especially during moments of adversity. His presence could be particularly valuable in big games or critical situations, where his ability to manage pressure could make a difference.
3. The Appeal to LSU Fans
There is no question that Les Miles is beloved in Baton Rouge. His quirky personality, his “Eat My Grass” moments, and his overall approach to college football made him a folk hero for LSU fans. His return, even in a less high-profile role, is likely to be a boost for fan morale, both as a gesture of continuity and as a nod to the program’s storied past. Fans of LSU know that Miles’ legacy isn’t just about his wins and losses but about the way he carried himself and inspired loyalty and passion from everyone around him.
4. A New Kind of Role for an Old Coach
Another compelling reason for Miles’ return is the changing nature of college football itself. The game has evolved dramatically in the past decade, with an increased focus on analytics, speed, and innovation. The role of a bench coach, which often involves a more hands-on, player-centric approach, may be a way for Miles to remain involved in the game without the high stakes of being a head coach. This role gives him the opportunity to impart his wisdom while avoiding the stress and responsibility that comes with being at the top of the organizational hierarchy.
In some ways, this may be the perfect job for a coach who has already reached the pinnacle of success but wants to stay connected to the game. It allows Miles to continue to be part of the LSU community and program without the pressure of leading the team. Whether this is a step toward future coaching roles or simply a way for Miles to give back to a program that meant so much to him, only time will tell.
Conclusion: A Full Circle for Les Miles?
Les Miles’ return to LSU as a bench coach represents a full-circle moment for the man who once led the Tigers to the pinnacle of college football. It is a move that allows Miles to remain involved in a program he helped build while embracing a new chapter in his career. For LSU, it is a symbolic gesture that recognizes the importance of legacy, experience, and continuity.
For Les Miles, this is a chance to mentor the next generation of coaches and players while still maintaining a close connection to the game he loves. Whether his time as a bench coach will be a stepping stone to something more or simply a way for him to share his wisdom with those who come after him, it is clear that the Tigers have found a way to blend the past and future in a way that only LSU can.
Leave a Reply