SEC teams run all over Clemson, that’s a fact. In three SEC games last year, in which Clemson went 0-3, the opponent averaged 250 rushing yards. They were -160 on the ground. The SportsLine Model has LSU projected to have the edge on the ground once again as well as the slight sack advantage. I understand the excitement around Dabo finally hitting the portal, but none of those players will impact the abysmal run defense enough to completely flip the script Week 1 of the season. I think LSU could win this outright, but I like that I can cover this spread here with a field goal loss too.

I'm high on LSU long-term in 2025, but right now it's a team with four new starters on its offensive line going against a great defensive front. Moving the ball won't be easy. On the other side, when was the last time Clemson's offense looked impressive against an SEC team?

I'm taking the easy way out by playing Clemson on the money line at home instead of laying the 3.5-points. Cade Klubnik is my Heisman Trophy pick and his team is my national championship favorite. LSU has lost five straight season openers, the longest streak in the nation. That continues despite a fun high-scoring game on Saturday. Clemson 34, LSU 28.

Most fascinating game of Week 1 IMO. Sure, you have Texas-Ohio State and others. But LSU ranks No. 1 in the transfer rankings from sister site 247Sports and Clemson ranks No. 1 in total returning production via ESPN. So why play it now? LSU QB Garrett Nussmeier, a top Heisman candidate and potential No. 1 pick in 2026, is dealing with a knee injury. I'm sure he will be fine in three weeks' time, but missed practices? Not ideal. If somehow out? We cash. Brian Kelly -- shout out to Grand Valley State; whoop whoop Lakers -- is 0-3 in season openers in the Bayou. And this is a true home game for Clemson, not a Something Valvoline Kickoff Game from a neutral site.

I'm high on both teams this season but I have to jump on LSU now that the spread moved to +4. LSU and Clemson are almost even in my preseason power rankings. I make Clemson -2 at home. I was going to pass at -3. Now that the line is over a FG it's time to strike. This is the most talented LSU team on both sides of the ball since Brian Kelly arrived in Baton Rouge with the worst Southern accent since James Van Der Beek in Varsity Blues. I expect a tight game between two of the top teams in the country.