Check in if you're stoked for Riley but still sort of want Aranda instead

I can go with either at this point. I think both are phenomenal choices to run this program.

Every one has their question marks.

Can Riley win a big game? Can he make the hire and recruit to field a respectable defense?

Is Aranda able to recruit at a Top 5 level? Does he have the capability to lead a top program after only 2 years as a HC?

No matter who is hired, there will be concerns, some valid, some not.

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Riley would be a huge splash hire that will definitely reinvigorate the program and the fanbase. But I've been on the Aranda train for a while and I feel that MAYBE he'd be the better long term hire for LSU.

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Agree 100%

Riley is the biggest hire you can make. Can’t signal any harder you are willing to do what it takes to win.

Overall I think Aranda is a better hire. No way you get him without implicitly telling the fan base you missed on your first choice. But he will be a top 5 coach when he lands a big job

I would prefer Aranda or Campbell over Riley. I think Riley is flashy, but focused too much on a singular aspect of the game. We need a more holistic approach to restore the culture & toughness to our program, and I’ve not seen anything from Riley to indicate that he’s the right man to do that. Playing in the Big 12 has probably masked a lot of his deficiencies, which is why he gets spanked in the playoffs.

Don’t get me wrong; I think he can win a shite ton of games here. But I don’t see us going all the way with him. Hope I’m wrong!

I’d be ecstatic for either one. I just really hope it ends up being one of them.

I posted in another thread that I think Aranda is the perfect man to lead a major program as HC. He has all the attributes you want as the face of a multi-million dollar enterprise. He would never embarrass your school(see previous 2 coaches), he's humble,intelligent and highly driven. I think that if he had a couple more years as a successful HC, this choice may be much easier. Who knows...maybe Woodward values Aranda over Riley. We don't really know despite all the "insiders" on here saying that they know.

Napier will be named head coach on December 5th

Im wit u

Well, it isn't done yet. But we will see.

Riley winning big games typically came down to defense and being behind in talent on D. Give him a good DC and LSU talent on D he will be fine.

Imagine taking our team now and the quality of our D. Then take Riley and his offense implemented with our current players. Don't you think we would be 1st or 2nd in the SEC West right now? I do.

So my concern is strength/conditioning and a tough mental physical team and a top DC and Riley being able to pursue those defensive recruits.

Just the opposite is my concern with Aranda. He would need a top OC and he would have to be able to get those top offensive players in here.

I like Aranda's style and demeanor and would love him as the coach. I'd be happy with Riley too, but I'm not much on coaches wearing visors.