CBS Sports: SEC Bold Predictions For 2026

CBS College Football writer Brandon Marcello recently laid out some bold predictions for all 16 SEC teams as spring practices began begin to wrap up.

For LSU, Marcello says the Tigers might get off to a sluggish start as the new team gels in Lane Kiffin's first year, but finish strong late in the season.

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LSU: The Tigers roll ... late in the season

It's OK to be enthralled by Lane Kiffin's revival at LSU, but let's tamp the expectations a bit, especially the idea that the Tigers should explode out of the gates. The Tigers are tied in Las Vegas for the highest win total (9.5) in the SEC, which is a testament to Kiffin's influence on the roster, but he has a monster task ahead of him as he tries to get all those new pieces to gel together. There are veterans on the roster, including QB transfer Sam Leavitt, but the feeling here is the Tigers will need a few weeks in September before tapping into their potential. The opener against Clemson is more important for Dabo Swinney's future than Kiffin's outlook, but the reunion trip to Ole Miss two weeks later will be an emotional rollercoaster for all involved. The season hinges on a two-week stretch in November, when Alabama and Texas come to Baton Rouge. An eight- or nine-win season should not be labeled a disappointment in Year 1, especially if LSU is obliterating teams late in the season -- after the roster gets on the same page.

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What are some of your predictions for LSU Football in 2026?