CFB analysts warn Brian Kelly’s LSU of big challenge in Clemson opener next season

As the 2025 college football season draws nearer, one matchup that has already started to turn heads is the season opener between LSU and Clemson. For LSU head coach Brian Kelly, the opening game against the Tigers is more than just a chance to start the season on a high note—it is an opportunity to prove that his program is capable of competing against one of the top teams in college football. However, several college football analysts are warning Kelly and LSU of the significant challenges they face in this matchup.

Clemson, under the leadership of head coach Dabo Swinney, has established itself as one of the premier programs in college football, boasting multiple national championships and a consistent presence in the College Football Playoff. With a roster full of talent, including one of the most dynamic quarterbacks in the nation, Clemson presents a major test for any team, especially one like LSU, which is still in the process of rebuilding its program under Kelly.

For Kelly, who is entering his third year as LSU’s head coach, the Clemson opener represents both a challenge and a critical opportunity to make a statement about the direction of his program. Despite LSU’s talent and potential, analysts caution that this will not be an easy game. With Clemson’s depth, experience, and championship pedigree, LSU will have to be at its absolute best to secure a victory.

This article will explore the major challenges that LSU faces in its 2025 season opener against Clemson, highlighting key factors such as team strengths and weaknesses, specific player matchups, and how LSU can prepare for this monumental clash.

Clemson’s Strengths: The Challenge LSU Faces

1. Clemson’s Elite Defense

One of the hallmarks of Clemson’s success under Dabo Swinney has been its defense. Over the years, Clemson has consistently fielded one of the most formidable defenses in the country, with talent across all levels of the defense. From powerful defensive linemen to ball-hawking defensive backs, Clemson’s defensive unit is built to suffocate opposing offenses.

For LSU, which is still developing its offensive identity under Kelly, this presents a significant challenge. The Tigers’ offensive line will be tested early and often against a defensive front that is capable of disrupting even the most high-powered offenses. Players like Travis Shaw and Clemson’s star defensive end will provide serious problems for LSU’s offensive line, potentially making it difficult for the Tigers to establish a running game or give quarterback Jayden Daniels enough time in the pocket to operate.

If LSU’s offensive line struggles to protect Daniels, it could put a damper on their ability to score and keep up with Clemson’s offense. As LSU works to find a rhythm in the early stages of the season, Clemson’s defense will be an obstacle they cannot afford to overlook.

2. Clemson’s Quarterback Play: The X-Factor

Clemson’s offense will be led by a quarterback who has the potential to be one of the best in the country—Cade Klubnik. The rising star has shown flashes of brilliance during his time with Clemson, and 2025 is expected to be his breakout season. Analysts have raved about his arm strength, mobility, and ability to make throws into tight windows. Klubnik has already proven that he can manage big moments, and his poise in pressure situations will be key as Clemson looks to execute its offense against LSU.

For LSU, facing a quarterback with the potential to make plays both in the pocket and on the run presents a major challenge. LSU’s defense will need to remain disciplined, keeping contained on Klubnik and not allowing him to extend plays or make big throws downfield. Clemson’s receiving corps, which is always loaded with talent, will provide Klubnik with numerous weapons to attack LSU’s secondary. Wide receivers like Antonio Williams and Brannon Spector will challenge LSU’s defensive backs, particularly if they can get separation in one-on-one matchups.

LSU’s defensive line, which is expected to be a strength for the Tigers, will also need to pressure Klubnik without allowing him to escape the pocket. If LSU can’t contain Clemson’s quarterback, they could find themselves on the wrong end of a high-scoring affair.

3. Clemson’s Special Teams

Another aspect of the game that LSU will need to address is Clemson’s special teams. Over the years, Clemson has developed one of the most reliable special teams units in college football, capable of flipping the field and providing excellent field position for the offense. Whether it’s through explosive returns or accurate kicking and punting, Clemson has often used special teams as a catalyst for success.

LSU’s special teams unit will need to be sharp to avoid giving Clemson an advantage in this area. A couple of missed opportunities in the return game or on coverage could prove to be critical in what promises to be a close game. If LSU can’t win the field position battle, they may find themselves constantly playing catch-up against a disciplined and efficient Clemson team.

LSU’s Challenges: Areas for Improvement

While Clemson certainly has its fair share of strengths, LSU also has areas of concern that could hinder its performance in this matchup. Despite entering the 2025 season with optimism, there are several questions that remain unanswered about the Tigers’ roster and overall readiness for a game of this magnitude.

1. LSU’s Offensive Line Play

As previously mentioned, LSU’s offensive line will face a significant test against Clemson’s elite defensive front. While LSU’s offensive line has talented individuals, such as Will Campbell and Emory Jones, the unit as a whole will need to play at a high level to avoid getting overwhelmed by Clemson’s defensive pressure.

In past seasons, LSU’s offensive line has been a point of contention, and Kelly will need to ensure that his unit is properly prepared to face one of the best defensive fronts in college football. Any mistakes in protection or missed assignments could lead to sacks, negative plays, or disruptions in the running game. LSU will need to establish a balanced offensive attack to keep Clemson’s defense on its heels.

2. Quarterback Play: Can Jayden Daniels Take the Next Step?

While LSU’s offense is built around quarterback Jayden Daniels, who showed flashes of brilliance in 2024, questions remain about his consistency in big games. Daniels has the physical ability to make plays with his arm and legs, but he will need to show growth in reading defenses and making quick, accurate decisions against a defense as talented as Clemson’s.

In 2024, Daniels struggled at times against elite defenses, and his ability to lead LSU to victory in big games was called into question. The Clemson opener will provide Daniels with a prime opportunity to prove that he has taken the next step in his development. If Daniels can control the tempo, make smart decisions, and avoid turnovers, LSU’s offense could have success against Clemson. But if he struggles under pressure, LSU’s hopes for an upset could quickly fade.

3. Defensive Depth and Experience

While LSU’s defense has some standout players, such as Harold Perkins and Maason Smith, the unit will face significant challenges in facing Clemson’s high-powered offense. LSU’s defensive line will need to pressure Klubnik, but they’ll also have to contend with a well-rounded Clemson offensive unit that can attack in multiple ways. If LSU’s defensive line fails to disrupt Clemson’s offense, it could open the door for Klubnik and Clemson’s wide receivers to take advantage of LSU’s secondary.

Additionally, LSU’s defensive depth will be tested. While the Tigers have talent, they are still in the process of rebuilding their defense under Kelly. The depth at key positions like cornerback, safety, and linebacker will need to be strong to avoid being exploited by Clemson’s offensive weapons.

Key Matchups to Watch

1. LSU’s Offensive Line vs. Clemson’s Defensive Front

The battle in the trenches will be one of the most important storylines of the game. LSU’s offensive line will have its hands full with Clemson’s powerful defensive front. How well LSU can protect Daniels and establish a running game will be crucial in determining the success of their offense.

2. Jayden Daniels vs. Clemson’s Secondary

Daniels will need to showcase his arm talent against a talented Clemson secondary. If Daniels can exploit mismatches and avoid mistakes, LSU’s offense could keep pace with Clemson. However, if Daniels struggles with accuracy or is pressured too much, Clemson’s defense will likely make life difficult for LSU.

3. LSU’s Defensive Line vs. Clemson’s Offensive Line

Clemson’s offensive line, while talented, will have to deal with LSU’s strong defensive line. LSU will need to apply pressure to Klubnik without allowing him to extend plays. If LSU can disrupt the timing of Clemson’s offense, they could potentially force turnovers and get off the field on third down.