ESPN Projects The College Football Playoff Top 12 After Week 1

By Staff Reporter•Sep 7, 202611:10 am•

IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect

LSU's dominant season-opening win over Clemson has the Tigers already receiving some early College Football Playoff buzz.

ESPN released its projection for what the CFP selection committee's Top 12 could look like after Week 1 and had Lane Kiffin's Tigers all the way up at No. 4.

ESPN pointed to LSU's dominance in the trenches, improved rushing attack, stifling defense, and strong playcalling as reasons the Tigers could find themselves that high in the rankings.

The outlet also noted that LSU's 51-10 victory came against a more formidable Week 1 opponent than some other top contenders faced.

Looking ahead, ESPN identified LSU's Sept. 19 road game against Ole Miss as its toughest remaining matchup, with FPI currently giving the Tigers a 55.8% chance to win.

Here's what ESPN had to say about LSU:

quote:
4. LSU Tigers (1-0)

Why they could be here: LSU outplayed and outcoached Clemson in every phase of the game, and the former coaches and players on the selection committee will be particularly impressed with how well LSU played up front on both sides. A vastly improved running game, including from quarterback Sam Leavitt, plus a stifling defense and smart playcalling made the Tigers the total package.

Why they could be higher: Texas and Ohio State also earned lopsided home wins, but theirs came against Group of 6 opponents with more favorable weather conditions.

Toughest remaining game: Sept. 19 at Ole Miss. ESPN's FPI gives Lane Kiffin a 55.8% chance to beat his former team, but it's going to be an unforgiving, hostile environment when he returns for the first time since leaving the Rebels amid last season's playoff run to take the LSU job.

Need to know: The true value of the Week 1 win on Selection Day will depend on how Clemson fares the rest of the season. The matchup didn't amount to much last year after Clemson spiraled to a 7-6 finish. But if Clemson can rebound and put together a meaningful 2026 season, that can help LSU separate from contenders that didn't play as challenging of a nonconference lineup.