With the 2024 season officially in the rearview mirror following a thrilling Texas Bowl victory over Baylor, LSU Football now turns its focus to the 2025 season.

The Tigers are riding a wave of optimism fueled by a stellar transfer class and a talented returning roster. To capitalize on this momentum, here are five attainable New Year’s resolutions for the team as they prepare for the upcoming season.

1. Become More Efficient in the Red Zone

One of LSU’s biggest struggles in 2024 was its inefficiency in the red zone. The Tigers scored on 83% of their red-zone trips, but only 56.6% resulted in touchdowns. Closing drives with touchdowns rather than field goals could elevate the offense to elite status.

In the Texas Bowl, tight end Trey’Dez Green showcased a potential solution by using his size to dominate in scoring situations. LSU’s red-zone offense will also benefit from transfer Nic Anderson, a 6-foot-4 target who excelled at scoring in tight spaces during his 2023 campaign. Additionally, improving the rushing attack will be key to keeping defenses off balance and avoiding obvious passing situations near the goal line.

2. Develop a More Effective Rushing Attack

LSU’s ground game ranked 108th nationally in 2024, averaging just 116.6 yards per game. This lack of balance forced the Tigers to rely heavily on their passing game, which ranked 7th in the country with 315.3 yards per game.

Heading into 2025, the coaching staff must make schematic adjustments to create a more dynamic rushing attack. The addition of transfers like Barion Brown and the continued involvement of head coach Brian Kelly in offensive play-calling could provide the spark needed to achieve a balanced offense.

3. Create More Turnovers on Defense

LSU’s defense forced just 14 turnovers in 2024, averaging slightly more than one per game. Missed opportunities, such as dropped interceptions, frequently allowed opponents to capitalize on extended drives.

The Tigers’ revamped secondary, featuring Ja’Keem Jackson, Mansoor Delane, and DJ Pickett, promises to inject new playmaking ability. Adding an edge rusher like Patrick Payton could further aid in forcing fumbles and creating havoc for opposing offenses.

4. Reduce Pre-Snap Penalties

Pre-snap penalties, particularly false starts, plagued LSU in 2024. These unforced errors often stalled drives in critical moments. In 2025, the Tigers must emphasize discipline and communication to eliminate these costly mistakes.

5. Achieve a 1,000-Yard Receiver

After failing to produce a 1,000-yard receiver in 2024, LSU is well-positioned to hit this milestone in 2025. With standout talents like Aaron Anderson, Chris Hilton Jr., and newcomers Nic Anderson and Barion Brown, the Tigers’ receiving corps could be among the nation’s best. Quarterback Garrett Nussmeier’s ability to spread the ball efficiently will be crucial in helping one of these playmakers surpass the 1,000-yard mark.

Bonus Resolution: Fix Special Teams Issues

Field goal blocks and special teams miscues cost LSU valuable points throughout the season. Hiring a dedicated special teams coach and emphasizing fundamentals in practice could help eliminate this recurring problem.

With these resolutions in mind, LSU Football enters 2025 with the tools and talent to contend for SEC dominance and beyond. Now, it’s up to the Tigers to execute and turn potential into success.