Brian Kelly discusses postseason goals prior to Citrus Bowl

LSU‘s postseason plans have changed dramatically over the past two weeks. Falling from College Football Playoff contender to losing the final two games before bowl season couldn’t have derailed the Tigers more.

Despite the whirlwind that was the past two weeks for LSU, head coach Brian Kelly is looking forward to what’s in front him his team.

“They’ve got exams, they’ve got to take care of their academics. So, first and foremost, academics,” Kelly said about what’s next for LSU. “We’ll give them a chance to rest up a little bit, get them in the training room, some weight training. We have our end-of-the-year banquet where we’re going to celebrate our seniors on Sunday, thank them for what they’ve contributed to an SEC West championship.

“We’ll do exit meetings with our players, what they’ve done well, what we can do better as we look forwards another game, as well. We’ll practice next week. Again, there are other things that are as important as recruiting, and that is your team. We’re not going to rush off and forget about our players and the development of our players at this very crucial time, as well.”

These off-the-field activities, and subsequent weeks off of game action, will not only give LSU’s players – such as quarterback Jayden Daniels – to recover for one last ride before heading into spring training over the next few months.

Daniels’ services might not even be needed for the bowl game, though. Daniels’ backup, Garrett Nussmeier, was electric for the Tigers after Daniels went down with an ankle injury in the SEC Championship game against No. 1 Georgia. Nussmeier went on to throw for nearly 300 yards, two touchdowns and an interception against one of the top defenses in the country.

After those festivities are finished, the Tigers will turn their attention to Purdue in the Citrus Bowl. Kickoff is set for Jan. 2 at 1 p.m. ET live on ABC.