In some ways, LSU and Clemson are kindred spirits: Tiger teams who play in Death Valley, and have some historical success at their programs, to boot.
There, however, their similarities end — at least in their contemporary forms. While Clemson has committed itself to a by-the-book, use-the-transfer-portal-sparingly mentality, LSU has decided it doesn't just want to be a college football villain: It wants to transcend the sport.
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Dabo Swinney and Lane Kiffin are no small part of the headlines heading into this game, with the former calling out Kiffin's controversial use of former NFL players as "embarrassing." Swinney then went on to deny a report that the LSU coach "egged him on" to report Kiffin's former school
of tampering in regard to linebacker Luke Ferrelli.
After a summer of talk and headlines, it's finally time to see what Kiffin's LSU Tigers will look like. They'll debut under the lights at Death Valley against another Power Four opponent, a beginning kickoff to a new era in Baton Rouge. Sam Leavitt will take the reins at quarterback for LSU, as it tries to return to the top of the standings in the SEC after muddling through the Brian Kelly seasons.
For Swinney and Clemson, it's also been rough sledding in recent years. Outside of a one-and-done playoff appearance in 2024, the Tigers haven't quite been up to the program's vaunted expectations set during Swinney's heyday. Christopher Vizzina will take over at quarterback for Clemson, which enters the season ranked 23rd in the US LBM Coaches Poll and unranked in the AP for the first time in 15 years.
That means this game is, effectively, a blank slate for both squads. LSU came out on top 17-10 last season, which ultimately did nothing to help Kelly's prospects of staying. But for both teams, this game will be an important litmus test to see where they stand heading into a new season.
LSU vs Clemson picks, predictions, odds
Odds courtesy of BetMGM as of Wednesday, Sept. 2
- Spread: LSU (-10)
- Over/under: 50.5 points
- Moneyline: LSU (-400) | Clemson (+310)
LSU 30, Clemson 14:Tiger Stadium will be absolutely buzzing for Kiffin's first game as LSU's coach and the team will ride that energy to a comfortable win over a Clemson team that's not as talented. The visiting Tigers will struggle to get much of anything going on offense as Princewill Umanmielen will record a couple of sacks to stuff Clemson.— Cory Diaz, Lafayette Daily Advertiser
LSU 24, Clemson 17: Clemson won't get run out of the building. Say what you will about its underwhelming 2025 season, but this is still a very talented Clemson squad that can compete with teams like LSU.
Both defenses should be stout, but LSU has noticeable offensive advantages. Leavitt is the more experienced quarterback who fits Kiffin's offensive scheme. He's very familiar with run-pass options and plays with just one or zero dropback steps, something Ole Miss ran plenty of last season under Kiffin.
It's difficult to envision an inexperienced quarterback and an inexperienced offensive line having a great time against LSU's defense. Perhaps as the season progresses, they'll fare well, but we're in Week 1. LSU wins a nail-biter. — Nick Coppola, Greenville News
USA TODAY Prediction: LSU 20, Clemson 14
This is a tough game to figure out, particularly with so many X-factors abounding. Will LSU wilt under the immense pressure it's brought upon itself? How will Kiffin and Leavitt acclimate to the new environment? Ultimately, however, talent wins out, and LSU is able to outlast Clemson for a tough win to open the season.
More USA TODAY staff picks:
- John Brice: LSU
- Matt Hayes: LSU
- Jordan Mendoza: LSU
- Paul Myerberg: LSU
- Erick Smith: LSU
- Eddie Timanus: LSU
- Blake Toppmeyer: LSU
What TV channel is LSU vs Clemson on today?
- TV channel: ABC
- Streaming: ESPN app | Fubo (free trial)
LSU and Clemson football's 2026 season-opener will be broadcast nationally on ABC. Chris Fowler (play-by-play) and Kirk Herbstreit (analyst) will be on the call after "College GameDay" opens its season in Baton Rouge. Holly Rowe and Laura Rutledge will be on the sidelines.
Streaming options for the game include the ESPN app, which requires a valid cable login to access, and Fubo, which offers a free trial to potential subscribers.
Stream LSU-Clemson live with Fubo (free trial)
LSU vs Clemson time today
- Date: Saturday, Sept. 5
- Start time: 7:30 p.m. ET | 6:30 p.m. CT
- Location: Tiger Stadium (Baton Rouge, La.)
LSU and Clemson are scheduled for a primetime 7:30 p.m. ET (6:30 p.m. local CT) kickoff on Sept. 5 from Tiger Stadium in Baton Rouge.
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: LSU vs Clemson prediction: Lane Kiffin opens season with win at home
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