Brian Kelly Makes CBS Sports Debut as College Football Analyst
Former Notre Dame and LSU head coach Brian Kelly began a new chapter in his football career when he made his CBS Sports Network debut as a college football analyst during Week 0 of the 2026 season.
Kelly joined the broadcast booth for the Jacksonville State vs. North Dakota State matchup on August 29, working alongside play-by-play announcer Rich Waltz and analyst Adam Breneman. It marked a significant change for Kelly, who had spent decades on the sidelines as a coach.
From Coach to Broadcaster
Kelly entered the 2026 season without a coaching position after his departure from LSU. CBS Sports brought him into its college football coverage, giving him an opportunity to use his extensive coaching experience from a different perspective.
His knowledge of game preparation, strategy, player development, and game management provided a natural foundation for his transition into broadcasting.
His First Game in the Boot
Kelly's first assignment came in Fargo, North Dakota, where North Dakota State faced Jacksonville State. The game was particularly notable because it was North Dakota State's first contest as an FBS program.
North Dakota State ultimately won the game 33–7, while Kelly provided analysis throughout the broadcast.
During the broadcast, Kelly occasionally drew on his coaching background to explain situations from a coach's perspective. His comments about game management and the stadium clock offered viewers insight into how coaches evaluate operational issues during a game.
Fans React to Kelly's Debut
Kelly's arrival in the broadcast booth generated considerable attention among college football fans. Some of the online discussion focused on his distinctive voice and accent, while others concentrated on his football analysis.
The overall reaction was mixed but included positive comments about his football knowledge and energy. Several viewers felt that Kelly appeared comfortable discussing the game despite being new to broadcasting.
Kelly himself took a modest view of his performance. At the conclusion of the broadcast, he thanked his colleagues and acknowledged that he would need to improve as he became more accustomed to the broadcasting environment.
A New Role for an Experienced Coach
Kelly's CBS Sports debut represents an interesting transition in his career. After spending more than four decades involved in college football as a player and coach, he is now learning how to analyze the sport from inside the broadcast booth.
His first appearance was not expected to be perfect, but it gave viewers an early look at what Kelly could bring to college football coverage. With more games ahead, his ability to translate his coaching experience into clear and engaging television analysis will be one of the interesting storylines of the 2026 season.
Conclusion
Brian Kelly's CBS Sports debut marked the beginning of a new phase in his football career. While his first appearance attracted plenty of attention and some lighthearted reactions, his extensive football experience gives him a valuable perspective as a television analyst.
As the 2026 college football season continues, fans will have more opportunities to see whether the longtime coach can turn his sideline expertise into a successful career in the broadcast booth.