LSU, AD Scott Woodward set to part ways as Tigers begin football coaching search

LSU and athletic director Scott Woodward have mutually agreed to part ways, as announced by the program. This decision follows the recent firing of head football coach Brian Kelly, who left with a $53 million buyout, the second largest in college football history. Woodward's departure comes amid criticism from stakeholders, including Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry, who opposed Woodward hiring the next coach due to his history of large contractual buyouts.

Verge Ausberry, a longtime athletic administrator, will serve as the interim athletic director and oversee the search for a new football coach. Ausberry previously served as LSU's executive deputy AD and executive director of external relations.

The LSU Board of Supervisors, which plays a significant role in the hiring process, may form a committee to find a new coach, although it remains unclear how much authority Ausberry will have in the search.

Woodward, who joined LSU in 2019, was previously responsible for significant hires at Texas A&M, including Jimbo Fisher,