Brian Kelly vs. Dabo Swinney: LSU and Clemson Go Toe-to-Toe for Coveted Lineman, Only 1 Prevails

The 2025 NCAA spring transfer portal opened from April 16 to April 25, giving college football teams a vital chance to fill gaps in their rosters before the new season. During this time, standout players like Bernard Gooden, a defensive lineman from USF, became hot targets for several top programs.

One of the most heated recruiting battles was between LSU’s Brian Kelly and Clemson’s Dabo Swinney. Both coaches fought hard to win his commitment. In the end, only one prevailed when Gooden announced his commitment to LSU on Saturday morning, giving Kelly and the Tigers the win over Swinney’s Clemson.

The Tigers Collide in a Recruiting War for Bernard Gooden, One of 2025’s Prized Linemen

Gooden made a big move when he entered the NCAA transfer portal after his impressive 2024 season at USF. His stats—35 tackles, 10 tackles for loss, and 1.5 sacks—earned him an All-AAC Honorable Mention. A player like him, who consistently delivers on defense and steps up when needed, is someone every team would fight for.

BREAKING: LSU has landed the Transfer Portal DT the Tigers had at the top of the team’s wish list.

USF’s Bernard Gooden has committed to LSU, he tells On3’s @Hayesfawcett3.

Gooden had 35 tackles, 10 tackles for loss and 1.5 sacks in 2024.

More:➡️ https://t.co/sawHUarVpE pic.twitter.com/9QRUAu9Cmb

— Shea Dixon (@Sheadixon) April 26, 2025

The race to sign him turned into a real battle, with two powerhouse programs fighting until the very end. The final showdown came during the coveted lineman’s visit to LSU’s campus in Baton Rouge on Thursday.

Kelly and his coaching staff made a bold move, pushing hard to secure Gooden’s commitment before he could visit other schools like Ole Miss. Their efforts paid off when the former USF lineman announced his commitment to Kelly’s Tigers just two days later, telling On3’s Hayes Fawcett about his decision on Saturday morning.

Despite Clemson’s strong push, LSU’s aggressive recruiting strategy and the influence of defensive coordinator Matt House significantly contributed to Gooden’s decision. Moreover, House’s track record of coaching top defensive talent, including players heading to the NFL, was a key factor in Gooden’s choice.

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Gooden’s commitment marks LSU’s first transfer addition during the second portal window. While Brian Kelly’s squad experienced minimal losses in this period, they did see 3-star signee Dilan Battle leave after 15 offseason practices. Meanwhile, Bernard Gooden’s arrival strengthens their defensive line and positions the Tigers as strong contenders for 2025.