The case for starting college football earlier

Did LSU unknowingly dodge a major Week 1 bullet?

Clemson attempted to schedule a Week 0 tune-up game before traveling to Baton Rouge for its season opener against LSU, but the NCAA denied the request. While coaches publicly praise marquee openers, actions speak louder than words — and Clemson’s move raises an interesting question about whether LSU benefited from its opponent being forced to open the season cold.

We break down why Week 0 games are becoming more attractive across college football, what the NCAA’s decision tells us, and whether this was a quiet advantage for LSU heading into one of the most anticipated openers of the season.

Plus, new NFL chatter surfaces as reports indicate Giants head coach John Harbaugh may target LSU offensive coordinator Charlie Weis Jr. to pair with former Ole Miss quarterback Jaxson Dart. How realistic is the threat, and what would losing Weis mean for LSU’s offense under Lane Kiffin?

We also take an early look at LSU’s 2026 SEC strength of schedule using opponents’ national championship odds — and the outlook may be far more favorable for the Tigers than many realize.

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