Kirk Herbstreit discusses Clemson resurgence and NFL player eligibility

ESPN analyst Kirk Herbstreit has commented on the upcoming Week 1 matchup between Clemson and LSU, as well as the ongoing debate regarding former NFL players returning to college football.

Regarding Clemson, Herbstreit suggests the program is positioned for a resurgence following a 7–6 season in 2025. He specifically cited the hiring of Chad Morris as offensive coordinator as a significant move to correct the team's direction after a period of struggle with the previous air raid offense. While senior Christopher Vizzina has been named the starter, the quarterback position remains a point of interest.

On the subject of player eligibility, Herbstreit addressed the controversy surrounding LSU welcoming former NFL players, such as Dae’Quan Wright and Zxavian Harris, back to the program. He expressed skepticism regarding the practice, stating that it “doesn’t make sense” for athletes to wear professional uniforms and then return to college competition. This issue coincides with legal challenges in a Louisiana federal court involving a lawsuit against the NCAA and opposition from the SEC.