LSU pummels Clemson: Lane Kiffin era starts with statement win over Dabo Swinney
CBS Sports • • sports
Key Points:
- LSU, under new head coach Lane Kiffin, dominated Clemson 51-10 in a season opener marked by LSU's strong running game and stifling defense, resulting in Clemson's worst loss since 2000 and the worst in Dabo Swinney's era.
- Quarterback Sam Leavitt led LSU with 100 rushing yards and two touchdowns, while Clemson struggled offensively, finishing with zero rushing yards in the fourth quarter and negative rushing yards midway through the third.
- LSU chose not to roster former NFL players Xzavian Harris and Dae'Quan Wright for the game due to SEC penalty concerns, despite a local judge clearing them to play; Kiffin joked about their absence given LSU's dominant performance.
- Clemson faces critical decisions at quarterback and offensive line after an ineffective outing, with freshman Tait Reynolds replacing Christopher Vizzina during the game, while the newly rehired offensive coordinator Chad Morris has yet to show impact.
- LSU's schedule appears favorable after this win, with only two ranked opponents before November, raising expectations that the team could remain undefeated heading into key matchups later in the season.
