LSU, Kelly One-Up Bama

For years, Alabama nation has hoped for the return of Bo Davis to coach Nick Saban's defensive line.

Ain't happening.

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Brian Kelly beat Bama to the punch, and sources say Davis is heading to Baton Rouge.

LSU per multiple reports hired Texas defensive line coach Davis in the same role Wednesday.

Davis both played at LSU and previously worked for the Tigers as an assistant strength and conditioning coach. Since then, he's built a reputation as one of the top defensive line coaches, evaluators, and recruiters in America. He spent 10 years on Nick Saban’s staff during his career and has coached at Texas since 2021.

Many sources say Davis wanted to return to Tuscaloosa, but it didn't get worked out. One source said Davis knocked on Saban's front door at home a month ago for an impromptu and unscheduled talk.

Frankly, if true, this leaves one scratching their head, but it is what it is.

Davis signed a three-year deal worth $4.05 million, a source with knowledge of the contract told The Baton Rouge Advocate. Davis' annual compensation starts at $1.25 million. His salary then increases by $100,00 annually through the final year of the deal.

LSU offered more than what Davis made at Texas, where he made $1 million per year. Davis had one year left on his deal with the Longhorns, which included a $500,000 buyout, according to the contract.

Per The Advocate, “As a defensive line coach Bo brings a wealth of proven success at both the professional and collegiate level throughout his distinguished career,” Kelly said in a statement.

“Additionally, Coach Davis is an outstanding recruiter and developer of the players in his charge."

Davis left Alabama in 2016 amid an NCAA investigation into recruiting violations. The NCAA gave him a two-year show cause order after it ruled he knowingly violated rules by taking part in an off-campus meeting with four recruits arranged by a booster.

It's unknow if UA compliance blocked Davis' return, but that's been the case in the past. Regardless, he's once again an LSU Tiger.