Brian Kelly is said to have contacted his Notre Dame roster hours after it was reported he was going to LSU. Notre Dame players and coaching staff learned this news like the vast majority of unbiased observers: through social media and the news bulletins.
At first, reports indicated Kelly “ghosts” her Notre Dame coaching staff, who is said to have not received news from him prior to the news. It is not clear if he has spoken to his coaching staff since the news broke on Monday night, but he is believed to have texted his players to apologize for not being spontaneous. I spread the news, per The Athletic.
“Guys… First, let me apologize for the late-night texting and more importantly, for not being able to share directly with you that I am leaving Notre Dame,” the text read. “I was flying back to South Bend tonight so I could see you guys in the morning but today the news came late and I’m sorry you found out through social media or the newsletters. “
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The text goes on to say that Kelly is proud of all that his team has accomplished. The Irish fight is 11-1, and may need only some disturbance during the conference championship weekend for the third time in the College Football Qualifiers.
“But for now, just know that my love for you is limitless and I’m so proud of all you’ve achieved. Our program is stellar because of your hard work and commitment. you and I know it will continue,” the text read. “Once again, I sincerely apologize for not being able to share the news directly with you.”
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Although fans are joking that this is Kelly’s “breakup text” to his team, it’s the first reported statement from Kelly that will confirm his move to LSU. He did not speak to the media or post any official statement.
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Kelly is leaving the Notre Dame program after coaching there since 2010. He signed a contract extension in 2020 that is said to run until 2024.
He became Notre Dame’s winning coach in this season’s history, surpassing Knute Rockne’s 105-game winning streak. His overall record at Notre Dame is 113-40, which includes seven seasons – and five straight – double-digit wins. The Fighting Irish made it to the playoffs twice in 2018 and 2020, and won the 2013 BCS Championship. They lost all three of those games by an average of 24 points per game.
