Overview

• LSU enters the opener on a five-game Week 1 skid, with Kelly 0-3 in season openers since taking over in 2021.
• Kelly said the Tigers upgraded personnel after adding 18 portal newcomers in a transfer class reported as No. 1 nationally.
• Clemson targets defensive improvement after ranking 84th against the run last season, hiring Tom Allen from Penn State to revamp the unit.
• With running back depth thin following Phil Mafah’s departure, senior Adam Randall shifted from wide receiver to tailback and is listed as RB1.
• The quarterback matchup pits Garrett Nussmeier against Cade Klubnik, and several previews predict Clemson’s home-field edge could be decisive.