Matt House on what he has learned about LSU from Tyrann Mathieu, Clyde Edwards-Helaire
Matt House is preparing to embark on his first year as the LSU defensive coordinator under Brian Kelly’s new coaching staff.
House brings a wealth of knowledge from both the NFL and collegiate ranks, but most recently spent time as the Kansas City Chiefs defensive coordinator since 2019.
“I’m going to tell you what, of any place I’ve been, this has the most passionate former players I’ve ever seen,” House said in a recent press conference.
Two of the biggest recent stars, Tyrann Mathieu and Clyde Edwards-Helaire, to come out LSU in recent history were on the Chiefs’ roster during the time Matt House spent in Kansas City.
The new Tigers’ defensive coordinator said their passion for the program stood out in a significant way, which made it easier for him to take the position when Kelly offered.
“Whether it was Clyde, whether it was T5, those guys love this university, they love this state and they want to do anything they can do to help it be successful. And that’s pretty neat. It’s neat to be a part of,” House said.
Brian Kelly on hiring Matt House as DC
Brian Kelly brought Matt House to LSU as the Tigers defensive coordinator for his revitalization of the program. In a press conference on Wednesday, Kelly revealed what led him to hiring House as one of his top assistants.
“First and foremost, somebody that communicates effectively,” started Kelly, when asked what he was looking for when hiring House. “Can develop his staff. You know, this isn’t about what you know. This is about how you can empower others. Matt has a proven track record of being able to bring others along with him, and develop them. Players and coaches alike.
“So, I think I’m looking at how they bring the room together. You know, other coaches, and then players. You know, his work at Kentucky was outstanding. The development of the defense through the years at Kansas City — obviously — were big. Got a chance to watch him first hand at Pittsburgh. You know, went against him there. Loved the way he made adjustments, and things of that nature. So, I think some first hand.
“But I think what I’m looking for in particular is the ability to not only have the knowledge of the position, but how that knowledge is developed amongst the other members of the staff, as well.”
As you can see, Kelly was impressed with the successful track record House possesses. Evidently, certain stops stand out, like House’s time in Pittsburgh as the Panthers’ secondary coach, and in Kentucky as the defensive coordinator of the Wildcats. Additionally, Kelly pointed out House’s most recent gig, where he was with the Kansas City Chiefs as their linebackers coach.
Brian Kelly is elated to have Matt House as his defensive coordinator. Listening to the coach speak about his hiring, it’s easy to see the joy in his voice.