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LSU prepares for season opener against Clemson under Lane Kiffin
LSU is set to open its 2026 football season at Tiger Stadium on September 5 against Clemson. The matchup marks the beginning of the Lane Kiffin era as head coach, following the departure of Brian Kelly. LSU enters the game ranked No. 11 in the AP preseason poll, while Clemson is ranked No. 23 in the Coaches Poll.
Kiffin has drawn significant attention for his stance on roster construction, specifically his desire to include former NFL players on the team. He has stated that his player leadership council supports this approach, claiming they want any player who can help the team win. This position has sparked debate regarding NCAA eligibility and conference regulations.
In preparation for the season opener, ESPN's College GameDay is scheduled to broadcast live from the LSU campus. The game will be televised nationally on ABC. Key matchups to watch include LSU cornerback DJ Pickett against Clemson wide receiver Bryant Wesco Jr.
Entities
Clemson · ESPN · LSU · Lane Kiffin · Tiger Stadium
Claims
What the coverage asserts, and how many sources carry each claim.
- [○ 1 SOURCE] Clemson is unranked in the AP preseason poll and ranked No. 23 in the Coaches Poll. 710keel.com
- [○ 1 SOURCE] The LSU vs. Clemson game will be held at Tiger Stadium in Baton Rouge. 710keel.com
- [● 3 SOURCES] ESPN's College GameDay will broadcast live from the LSU campus in Baton Rouge for the season opener. 710keel.com · 965kvki.com · 107jamz.com
- [DISPUTED] LSU defeated Clemson 17-10 during the 2025 season. 710keel.com
- [○ 1 SOURCE] Lane Kiffin has taken over as the head coach of LSU, replacing Brian Kelly. 710keel.com
- [○ 1 SOURCE] LSU is ranked No. 11 in the AP preseason poll and No. 13 in the Coaches Poll. 710keel.com