**Brian Kelly Intensifies Role as LSU's Offensive Struggles Continue**

GAINESVILLE, Fla. - During a challenging game against Florida, Brian Kelly found himself increasingly consulting his offensive play sheet. Despite LSU's dominating possession and running 92 plays, the Tigers only managed one touchdown in their 27-16 defeat to No. 22 Florida.

LSU's offensive struggles have become more pronounced recently, with the team scoring a mere 29 points over the past two games. This has prompted Kelly to immerse himself more deeply in offensive planning and execution. "I think when things don't go well, the head coach has got to be involved," Kelly stated. While confident in his coaching staff, Kelly emphasized the ultimate responsibility lies with him.

Having halted play-calling duties during his Notre Dame tenure, Kelly continued that delegation at LSU, even as he outlines the team's offensive approach. However, the current offensive regression under first-year offensive coordinator Joe Sloan, who replaced Mike Denbrock, demands his closer attention. LSU started strong this season with a 6-1 record, but its offensive output has dwindled to 35 points over the past 10 quarters, leading to three consecutive losses for the first time under Kelly.

LSU's offensive inefficiencies were glaring in the Florida game, where they averaged only 4.2 yards per play and struggled to maintain momentum due to frequent negative plays. The Tigers allowed a season-high seven sacks and 11 tackles for losses, hampering their offensive drives. Redshirt junior quarterback Garrett Nussmeier did manage to extend drives, going 12 of 15 for 151 yards and a touchdown on third down, but LSU often had to rely on field goals, with Damian Ramos making three out of his four attempts.

The Tigers’ red zone woes persisted, as they ranked 73rd nationally in red zone touchdown percentage (61.5%). They were forced to settle for a field goal on their only red zone trip against Florida. A touchdown pass from Nussmeier was nullified due to a pass interference call on senior receiver Kyren Lacy, which Kelly referred to as a "silly mistake."

Despite LSU managing to dominate the time of possession and picking up nearly double the first downs than Florida, the inability to capitalize on those advantages left the team in a losing streak with two regular-season games remaining. Kelly remains determined to assist his players through this challenging period, highlighting the need for simpler offensive strategies to eliminate negative plays and convert opportunities.

"That's why I have to be more involved in what's going on," Kelly said. "We've got to help them, and as coaches, that's what I have to do."