**LSU Coach Brian Kelly Stays Neutral on Live Tiger Mascot Controversy**

Coach Brian Kelly gave only a brief comment regarding Governor Jeff Landry's proposal to bring a live tiger mascot onto the field before LSU's home football game against Alabama. When asked about it at a recent news conference, Kelly simply stated, "I'm a huge tiger fan." LSU had discontinued the practice of displaying its live tiger mascot, Mike, on the Tiger Stadium field in 2015.

The push to revive the tradition began this football season, with Landry initially advocating for it behind closed doors. On October 1, he publicly announced that LSU had "an unbelievable opportunity" to bring back the mascot. However, LSU officials, including vice presidents John Walters and Courtney Philips, informed Landry that the veterinary school would not permit the current mascot, Mike VII, to leave his enclosure.

Landry then considered an alternative approach, proposing to bring a different live tiger from Florida for the Alabama game. His plan met substantial resistance, particularly from animal rights activists. PETA condemned the renewed effort, labeling it a "shameful" decision and describing the practice as "idiotic" and "archaic." The organization, along with nearly 50,000 supporters, called on Landry to abandon the idea and urged LSU to refuse.

The tradition of live tiger mascots at LSU dates back to 1935 when a fundraising campaign, led by athletic department trainer Chellis "Mike" Chambers, collected $750 to purchase a 1-year-old, 200-pound tiger from the Little Rock Zoo in Arkansas. This tiger was named Mike in honor of Chambers.

LSU's live tiger mascot practices evolved over the years, with previous mascots being transported to the sidelines in a trailer and even to some away games. Mike VI passed away in 2016, and Mike VII became the mascot in 2017.

As the controversy continues, LSU has remained largely silent with athletic department officials deferring questions to university communications, which has not responded to requests for comment. The first report of Landry's plan surfaced through LouisianaSports.net.