Paul Finebaum Names Major College Football Program with ‘Realistic’ Playoff Chances

As the 2025 college football season looms large, discussions surrounding the College Football Playoff (CFP) race are heating up. With the top teams across the nation preparing for another grueling season, analysts, commentators, and fans alike are already speculating about which programs have the best chance of making it into the playoff bracket. Among the most notable voices in college football media is ESPN’s Paul Finebaum, who has consistently offered bold predictions and sharp analysis throughout his career.

In a recent segment, Finebaum made waves by identifying a major college football program with what he described as “realistic” College Football Playoff chances—one that might surprise some and could be a dark horse in the race for the 2025 CFP. Finebaum’s comments have stirred excitement, intrigue, and a wave of optimism around this program, as they provide a glimpse into what could be one of the most compelling storylines of the season.

While many will point to perennial powerhouses like Alabama, Georgia, or Ohio State as the clear frontrunners for the CFP, Finebaum has his eyes set on a different program—a program that has been building momentum and could be ready to make a significant leap. In this article, we’ll dive into the program Finebaum believes has “realistic” playoff aspirations, explore the key factors behind his assessment, and examine what this means for the landscape of college football in 2025.

The Program with ‘Realistic’ Playoff Chances: LSU Tigers

In a surprising yet insightful prediction, Paul Finebaum named LSU as a major college football program with “realistic” chances of securing a spot in the 2025 College Football Playoff. Finebaum’s choice of LSU has generated significant buzz, considering the Tigers’ recent performance and the competitiveness of the SEC, where they face some of the most formidable programs in the country. LSU, a team that has seen highs and lows in recent years, has steadily been improving under head coach Brian Kelly, and Finebaum believes the Tigers are on the brink of something big.

A Brief History of LSU’s Football Program

LSU is no stranger to success in college football. The Tigers have historically been one of the top programs in the nation, consistently producing elite talent, competing for national titles, and earning respect within the SEC. LSU’s most recent national championship came in the 2019 season, under head coach Ed Orgeron, when they capped off a dominant year with a win over Clemson in the CFP National Championship Game. That season marked one of the most impressive runs in college football history, as LSU showcased a potent offense led by Heisman Trophy winner Joe Burrow and an incredible supporting cast of playmakers.

However, following their championship victory, LSU’s program entered a period of turbulence. The Tigers faced an unexpected decline, with a disappointing 2020 season and an inconsistent 2021 campaign, leading to Orgeron’s departure in 2021. Enter Brian Kelly, who was hired to bring stability and restore LSU to its former glory. Kelly’s first season in 2022 was a strong start, with a 10-4 record and an SEC Championship Game appearance. In 2023, LSU continued to build upon Kelly’s foundation, adding key recruits, transfers, and developing a solid defense, positioning themselves as contenders in the SEC.

With that backdrop, it’s easy to understand why Finebaum sees LSU as a legitimate threat to reach the CFP in 2025. Despite the fierce competition in the SEC, LSU has the talent, the coaching, and the momentum to make a deep run. Finebaum’s confidence in LSU stems from several key factors, which we’ll explore in the following sections.

Key Factors Behind LSU’s “Realistic” Playoff Chances

1. Elite Talent Across the Roster

One of the most compelling reasons why Paul Finebaum is bullish on LSU’s playoff prospects is the sheer level of talent the Tigers have accumulated on both sides of the ball. Under Brian Kelly’s leadership, LSU has been able to attract top-tier recruits and develop standout players at crucial positions.

Quarterback Play: Jayden Daniels and Garrett Nussmeier

At the heart of LSU’s offense is Jayden Daniels, the dual-threat quarterback who has been a revelation since transferring to Baton Rouge from Arizona State. Daniels possesses exceptional mobility, arm strength, and decision-making ability, which allows him to make plays both in the pocket and on the run. In 2023, Daniels had a breakout year, leading LSU to some big wins and establishing himself as one of the SEC’s top quarterbacks. His leadership and ability to operate in high-pressure situations will be crucial to LSU’s playoff aspirations.

Behind Daniels is Garrett Nussmeier, a talented young quarterback with significant potential. While Daniels is the established starter, Nussmeier has the tools to step in and make an impact if needed. Having a capable backup like Nussmeier gives LSU flexibility at the most important position on the field, adding depth to an already strong offense.

Wide Receivers and Playmaking Talent

LSU has a rich tradition of producing elite wide receivers, and that tradition continues in 2025. Kayshon Boutte, one of the nation’s top receivers, returns to lead a deep and talented receiving corps. His ability to stretch the field and make explosive plays is a game-changer for the Tigers. Additionally, emerging stars like Jack Bech and Brian Thomas Jr. provide ample support, giving LSU a diverse and dangerous receiving unit.

The combination of a dynamic quarterback like Daniels, backed by a talented group of wide receivers, gives LSU an offensive attack capable of challenging the best defenses in the nation.

The Defensive Front

While LSU’s offense is exciting, it’s the defense that has raised some eyebrows as well. LSU has one of the most disruptive defensive lines in college football, led by Maason Smith and B.J. Ojulari. Smith, a force in the middle of the defensive line, is a potential first-round pick in the NFL Draft, and Ojulari is an explosive edge rusher who can make life difficult for opposing quarterbacks. Together, they form a formidable front that can create pressure, stop the run, and disrupt offensive schemes.

In addition to the front seven, LSU boasts a talented secondary with playmakers like Jay Ward and Greg Brooks Jr. The Tigers’ defense has the ability to create turnovers, limit big plays, and provide the necessary support for their high-powered offense.

2. Brian Kelly’s Coaching and Leadership

When Brian Kelly took over at LSU, he inherited a team with a mix of talent and inconsistency. However, his experience and ability to quickly implement a winning culture have been key to LSU’s resurgence. Kelly’s expertise in developing players, running a disciplined program, and making in-game adjustments has allowed LSU to compete with the best teams in the SEC and beyond.

Kelly’s success at Notre Dame—where he turned a once-struggling program into a consistent contender—has given him the tools to thrive in Baton Rouge. His methodical approach, attention to detail, and ability to get the best out of his players are crucial in navigating the high-pressure world of SEC football.

In 2025, Kelly will be tasked with leading LSU to its first CFP appearance since the 2019 national championship season. With his experience, leadership, and deep understanding of what it takes to compete at the highest level, Kelly is well-equipped to guide LSU through a challenging SEC schedule and into the playoff conversation.

3. The SEC’s Unpredictability and Opportunities for LSU

The SEC remains one of the most competitive conferences in college football, with top teams like Alabama, Georgia, and Tennessee all vying for playoff spots. However, as Finebaum points out, the unpredictability of the SEC creates opportunities for teams like LSU to emerge.

In recent years, Alabama and Georgia have dominated the SEC, but the conference is far from a two-horse race. Programs like Tennessee, Ole Miss, and even Arkansas are showing signs of competitiveness, and the college football landscape is evolving. This gives LSU an opportunity to seize the moment and capitalize on any slip-ups from the conference’s traditional powers. LSU’s ability to defeat top SEC teams, including Alabama and Georgia, will be key to securing a spot in the CFP.

In addition, the SEC Championship Game, which often serves as a de facto CFP qualifier, will be a crucial point for LSU. If Kelly’s squad can navigate the SEC gauntlet and earn a berth in the SEC Championship, they will have a legitimate chance to punch their ticket to the playoff.

The Road to the 2025 CFP: What LSU Must Do

For LSU to make the College Football Playoff in 2025, several factors will need to align perfectly. First and foremost, the Tigers must remain consistent throughout the season and avoid costly losses. A one-loss LSU team, especially if that loss comes to a top-tier SEC opponent, may still have a path to the CFP. However, any additional losses would likely derail their chances.

Furthermore, LSU will need to play strong in the non-conference games and continue to improve against SEC opponents. A win in key games against programs like Alabama, Ole Miss, and Texas A&M could set LSU up for a strong finish to the season.

Key Games on the Schedule:

1. Alabama (October 21) – A showdown with the Crimson Tide is always pivotal for LSU. A win in this game would give LSU a significant boost in the rankings.
2. Georgia (November 4) – A game against the defending national champions could be a make-or-break moment for LSU’s CFP hopes.
3. SEC Championship Game (December 2) – If LSU can make it to this game, a win would almost guarantee a spot in the College Football Playoff.

LSU’s 2025 CFP Hopes Are Realistic, But Challenging

Paul Finebaum’s prediction that LSU has “realistic” chances to make the College Football Playoff in 2025 carries weight due to the Tigers’ combination of talent, coaching, and SEC competition. While LSU will face immense challenges along the way, the program’s ability to contend in the SEC, coupled with their offensive and defensive firepower, makes them a legitimate playoff contender.

For Brian Kelly, the 2025 season represents a pivotal moment in his tenure at LSU. The opportunity to lead the Tigers to the CFP would solidify his place as one of the nation’s top coaches and restore LSU to its rightful place among college football’s elite.

If LSU can stay healthy, execute at a high level, and win key matchups, there’s no reason why the Tigers can’t make a deep playoff run. With Finebaum’s endorsement and the ingredients for success in place, LSU football is poised for what could be a thrilling and memorable 2025 season.