LSU's athletic director, Verge Ausberry, has taken a shot at Brian Kelly, the former coach of the LSU football program. Ausberry, a Louisiana lifer and LSU alumni, believes that Kelly's tenure was characterized by a lack of connection and engagement with the program, its alumni, and its fans. This is in stark contrast to the 'Saban model' that Ausberry advocates for, which emphasizes a strong relationship between the program, its supporters, and the community. Ausberry's comments come as he welcomes Lane Kiffin, the new coach, who is expected to bring a more collaborative and inclusive approach to the program. Kiffin's hiring has been a controversial move, with some questioning his ability to lead the team to a national championship. However, Ausberry believes that Kiffin's approach will help LSU reconnect with its alumni and fans, and that the increased attention and drama surrounding the program is beneficial for its success. The article concludes by highlighting the importance of a strong connection between a college football program and its community, and how this can impact the program's performance and reputation.
