A Surprising Broadcasting Appointment
CBS recently made a head-scratching decision by bringing Brian Kelly into their college football coverage team. While the network may perceive untapped potential in the veteran coach, many observers suspect the hiring was simply a move to secure a recognizable name for Mountain West game broadcasts. Beyond the booth, Kelly is slated to appear as an analyst on the Inside College Football program on the CBS Sports Network.
The Conflict of Coaching Ambitions
The primary critique of this hiring lies in Kelly’s public stance on his career trajectory. He has made it clear that his heart remains in collegiate coaching. As he stated in a previous interview:
«I still want to make a difference. All the young men that have been under my charge over 35 years, I feel like I have a lot still to give... Money aside, I have a lot to give. And my motivation is to want to get back to building relationships and successful programs in college football.»
His role as an unpaid consultant at Memphis further reinforces the theory that his time in broadcasting is merely a temporary bridge while he waits for another head coaching opportunity, similar to the path taken by Dan Mullen before his move to UNLV.
Contractual Realities and Networking
From a financial perspective, this transition looks more like a strategic necessity than a vocational shift. Following his departure from LSU, Kelly’s massive $54 million buyout includes a clause requiring him to pursue work in coaching or media to mitigate the financial burden on his former employer. In this context, television serves as a strategic “waiting room.” It allows a coach to remain relevant, keep a close watch on roster developments, and maintain visibility with athletic directors and university leadership without fully stepping away from the gridiron.
Concerns Regarding On-Air Suitability
Beyond the logistical reasons for his hiring, there is the question of his fit as a television personality. Kelly’s previous media appearances have been largely unremarkable. Critics point to his history of strained interactions with the media and staff—such as the infamous anecdote involving Robert Saleh and Matt LaFleur during their time at Central Michigan, or his highly scrutinized attempts to connect with recruits via viral social media videos—as evidence that he may struggle to win over the audience. In the world of sports broadcasting, where likability or compelling charisma are key, Kelly enters the role without a strong track record of either.
The Outlook for Mountain West Coverage
While Kelly will likely deliver a serviceable performance, the move raises concerns for Mountain West fans. The conference deserves a broadcast team dedicated to the craft of storytelling and analysis, rather than a transient professional using the platform as a mere pit stop. Whether CBS finds value in this experiment remains to be seen, but for now, the appointment remains a subject of skepticism rather than celebration.