LSU to Review National Anthem Policy Amid Gov. Landry's Calls for Athlete Participation
Louisiana Gov. Jeff Landry advocates for mandatory anthem presence for athletes, sparking debate and policy review at LSU.
- LSU head coach Brian Kelly said the football team would stand for the national anthem if required by school administration, in response to Louisiana Gov. Jeff Landry's push for a policy change.
- Gov. Jeff Landry has called for state college boards to require athletes to be present for the national anthem or risk losing their scholarships, citing a need for unity and respect.
- LSU's athletic director Scott Woodward stated the department would review its policies, though no specific changes have been announced.
- Historically, LSU's football and basketball teams have not been present for the national anthem due to pregame preparations, a practice common among college sports teams.
- Kelly highlighted the team's patriotic efforts during a game against Army, where the stadium featured camouflage-patterned end zones, though neither team was on the field for the anthem.