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Breaking News: LSU to Erect Statue Honoring Legendary Head Coach
BATON ROUGE, La. — In a move that cements the legacy of one of college football’s most iconic figures, the Louisiana State University (LSU) Tigers football program has officially announced plans to erect a statue of their legendary former head coach. The tribute, aimed at celebrating decades of excellence, leadership, and championship glory, marks a significant moment in the history of LSU athletics.
The decision was made public during a press conference held Thursday morning at the LSU Football Operations Center. University President Dr. William Tate IV, Athletic Director Scott Woodward, and a host of former players and staff were on hand to unveil renderings of the upcoming monument, which will be placed outside Tiger Stadium—fondly known as “Death Valley”—where thousands of LSU fans gather every fall to cheer on their beloved Tigers.
Honoring a Coaching Legend
Though LSU officials did not initially release the coach’s name in the early announcement, sources close to the program have confirmed that the statue will honor none other than Coach Ed Orgeron, who famously led the Tigers to an undefeated season and a national championship in 2019. Orgeron, a Louisiana native and longtime fixture in the world of college football, captured the hearts of fans across the nation with his gravelly voice, fiery locker room speeches, and deep love for his home state.
During his tenure as head coach from 2016 to 2021, Orgeron compiled a 51–20 record and brought LSU to national prominence in an era dominated by powerhouse programs. His 2019 team—featuring Heisman Trophy-winning quarterback Joe Burrow—was widely regarded as one of the greatest college football teams of all time, finishing 15–0 and steamrolling through a gauntlet of elite opponents.
“Coach O didn’t just win football games—he embodied the spirit of Louisiana,” said Athletic Director Scott Woodward. “From his passion for the team to his connection with the community, Coach O gave everything he had to this program. This statue is a tribute not only to his success on the field, but to the cultural impact he made at LSU and beyond.”
A Monument in the Making
Work on the monument is scheduled to commence in the fall of 2025, with completion anticipated by the start of the 2026 football season. The statue will be constructed by nationally acclaimed sculptor Brian Hanlon, whose previous works include statues of other college football greats such as Nick Saban (Alabama), Tom Osborne (Nebraska), and Pat Summitt (Tennessee).
Hanlon is known for his attention to detail and ability to capture both the physical likeness and spirit of his subjects. The statue will depict Orgeron mid-roar, arms extended as though rallying the crowd—an image synonymous with his electric presence on the sidelines.
“It’s an honor to bring Coach Orgeron’s energy to life in bronze,” Hanlon said. “We want fans to feel his intensity and pride every time they walk by this monument. He is not just a coach—he’s an icon.”
A Long-Awaited Tribute
Talks of honoring Orgeron with a statue began circulating shortly after LSU’s 2019 championship run, but the idea gained traction in recent years as alumni, boosters, and fans called for a lasting tribute. Orgeron’s departure in 2021 was met with mixed emotions, but even his critics acknowledge the indelible mark he left on the program.
“This is bigger than one season or one person,” said former LSU quarterback Joe Burrow, who attended the press conference via livestream. “Coach O believed in us when few others did. He gave me and so many others a chance to be great. That statue is for all of us who were part of something historic.”
Former players and staff have echoed similar sentiments, describing Orgeron as a player’s coach, a motivator, and a man who brought pride back to LSU football.
Community Response
Fans throughout Louisiana and across the SEC are already celebrating the news. Social media exploded with reactions following the announcement, with hashtags like #CoachOStatue and #ForeverLSU trending on X (formerly Twitter).
“I got chills,” said longtime LSU season ticket holder Natalie Broussard. “He brought us the most magical season of our lives. That statue will remind future generations what greatness looks like.”
LSU alumni organizations are also reportedly planning special events around the statue’s unveiling, including a reunion for members of the 2019 championship team and a celebratory tailgate to kick off the 2026 season.
Coach Orgeron Reacts
In typical Coach O fashion, the former head coach responded to the news with humility and passion.
“I’m honored, I really am,” Orgeron said in a brief statement. “I love LSU. I love Louisiana. Everything I did was for the players, the fans, and the people of this great state. I’m grateful for this recognition, but more than anything, I’m proud of the memories we made together.”
Orgeron, who has kept a relatively low profile since stepping away from coaching, has remained active in the Baton Rouge community and continues to be a vocal supporter of the Tigers.
Looking Ahead
As LSU looks toward the future under head coach Brian Kelly, the statue of Coach Orgeron will serve as a bridge between past glory and the promise of what’s to come. It’s a symbol not only of a championship season but of resilience, unity, and the enduring power of Louisiana football culture.
For Tigers fans, the legacy of Coach O is not just etched in the record books—it will soon be cast in bronze, standing proudly in front of Death Valley, forever yelling, “Geaux Tigers!”
Let me know if you’d like a version focused more on a different coach (like Nick Saban or Les Miles) or expanded with quotes from fans or players!
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