LSU football prepares for 2026 season opener against Clemson

The LSU Tigers are set to begin their 2026 football season on September 5 against Clemson at Tiger Stadium in Baton Rouge. The matchup marks the beginning of the Lane Kiffin era at LSU, following his move from Ole Miss to replace Brian Kelly. LSU enters the season ranked No. 11 in the AP preseason poll and No. 13 in the Coaches Poll, while Clemson is ranked No. 23 in the Coaches Poll.

Key storylines for the Tigers include the health of quarterback Sam Leavitt and a significant effort to revitalize the rushing attack. After ranking near the bottom of the SEC in rushing yards per game last season, the program is looking to new talent, including Wisconsin transfer Dilin Jones, who is expected to compete for the lead running back role. The roster features over 50 new faces as the team aims to contend for a spot in the College Football Playoff.