We're days away from the start of another LSU football season. Baton Rouge is abuzz as Lane Kiffin begins his first year at LSU with high expectations. LSU poured money into this roster, and the talent level should have LSU in the playoff conversation.
The road isn't easy, though. LSU has a tough schedule that features Ole Miss, Texas A&M, Alabama, and Texas. LSU also has to take a road trip to Tennessee and open the year against a Power Four opponent in Clemson. If LSU goes 10-2, it's a lock for the CFP. Anything less, and the Tigers need help.
LSU will be tested on Saturday night. Clemson is unranked, but Dabo Swinney's group is still talented and will be ready to play. LSU is a transfer-heavy team, which always raises plenty of questions. LSU's
success will hinge on quarterback Sam Leavitt and a rebuilt offensive line.
Let's take a look at the final bowl projections for LSU as the Tigers gear up for Clemson on Saturday.
Final Bowl Projections for LSU football in 2026
The Athletic
The Athletic projects LSU to face USC in the Las Vegas Bowl. Given LSU's expectations, this would come as a slight disappointment.
ESPN's Mark Schlbach
ESPN's Mark Schlabach projects LSU to make the playoff as a No. 10 seed but lose to Miami in the first round.
LSU Wire
I'll finish with a prediction of my own. I'm on the same page as Schlabach. I think LSU makes the CFP -- there are too many good players on this roster not to -- but I don't trust LSU enough yet to win a playoff game. Still, I think Kiffin lays a solid foundation in year one.
This article originally appeared on LSU Wire: Final preseason bowl projections for LSU football in Kiffin's 1st year
