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.

Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!

Gametime
Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONfor $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply.

Mazda
Like our players, we’re driven by the details. Because highlights make the reel. What it takes to get there makes it count.
There’s more to a Mazda. Because there’s more to you.

Turbo Tax
For a limited time, you can have your taxes done by a local TurboTax expert for just $150 — all in, if a TurboTax expert didn’t file for you last year. Just file by February 28. Take taxes off your plate and get back to your life.
Visit https://TurboTax.com/local to book your appointment today.

Rocket Money
Let Rocket Money help you reach your financial goals faster. Join at http://RocketMoney.com/LOCKEDON

FanDuel
If you’re a new customer, bet just $5 and get $200 in Bonus Bets if you win. Make it count — because after the Super Bowl, the season is over. Last call for football on FanDuel, an Official Sportsbook Partner of Super Bowl Sixty.

FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Andy Burnham is back in the game – and Robert Jenrick reveals all

Coffee House Shots

Andy Gwynne's impending resignation

The AI-powered Podcast Player