LSU’s No. 1 Transfer Class Falters, Kelly Fired as Indiana’s Lower‑Ranked Squad Goes Undefeated
LSU’s No. 1 transfer portal class underperformed at 7‑6, prompting Brian Kelly’s firing, while Indiana’s 25th‑ranked class went 16‑0 and Texas Tech’s 2nd‑ranked class yielded six NFL draft picks.
TL;DR
LSU’s top‑ranked transfer portal class produced a 7‑6 record and led to Brian Kelly’s firing. Indiana’s 25th‑ranked class went 16‑0, while Texas Tech’s 2nd‑ranked class yielded six NFL draft picks, including the No. 2 overall selection. The contrast highlights how portal rankings alone do not predict season outcomes.
Context
After the 2025 NFL Draft, we re‑evaluated that year’s transfer portal classes using 247Sports rankings. The analysis weighs on‑field impact, the number of immediate starters, and draft picks.
We also considered the number of transfers that started immediately and earned all‑conference honors. This approach reveals how portal talent translates to wins and professional opportunities.
Key Facts
### Indiana Indiana’s class ranked 25th by 247Sports with 23 transfers. The Hoosiers finished the season 16‑0. Twenty‑three transfers included ten starters, five of whom earned All‑Big Ten honors.
### Texas Tech Texas Tech’s class ranked 2nd with 21 transfers and a 12‑2 record. Six of those transfers were drafted, headlined by the No. 2 overall pick David Bailey. Thirteen transfers became starters, with seven earning All‑Big 12 honors, including four first‑teamers.
### LSU LSU’s class ranked 1st with 18 transfers. The group posted a 7‑6 record, prompting the school to fire head coach Brian Kelly. Only a handful of the 18 transfers started, and none were selected in the NFL Draft.
What It Means
The outcomes show that a high portal ranking does not automatically translate to on‑field success. Indiana’s lower‑ranked class achieved a perfect record, indicating effective player integration and coaching.
Texas Tech’s class delivered both wins and NFL talent, while LSU’s highly ranked class fell short of expectations. These results suggest that coaching fit and scheme alignment may matter more than raw portal talent.
What to Watch Next
Watch whether Indiana can sustain its winning trajectory into the next season. Also monitor how Texas Tech’s draft picks perform in their rookie campaigns and if LSU can rebound under a new coaching staff. Additionally, observe whether the transfer portal continues to shape roster construction across Power Four programs.
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