After a brutal 2025 campaign for the Clemson Tigers, head coach Dabo Swinney and his squad will now try to rebuild the program for next season.

Earlier this week, Clemson officially released their schedule for the 2026 college football season. The Tigers are now set to play a tough ACC schedule, which includes matchups against the Miami Hurricanes and the Florida State Seminoles on the road.

However, the one contest that is on everyone’s minds is the program’s week one battle in 2026.

According to FanDuel Sportsbook, Clemson opens as a 10.5-point underdog in the program’s week one contest against the LSU Tigers to kick off the 2026 college football season.

Last year, the matchup against Clemson and LSU was a fierce battle between two highly rated programs heading into the 2025 season. Unfortunately for Swinney and his squad, the Tigers were defeated at home, 17-10.

While the defense managed to hold the SEC powerhouse for most of the game, quarterback Cade Klubnik could not generate enough passing yards to overcome the deficit.

Now, this year’s matchup will look much different.

Clemson is set to travel to LSU this year to take on a completely overhauled LSU squad. After the firing of former head coach Brian Kelly, the Tigers landed a home run coach in Lane Kiffin for next season.

Kiffin made multiple big-time moves in the transfer portal this offseason, including quarterback Sam Leavitt and offensive tackle Jordan Seaton.

As for the Tigers, Swinney and the rest of the coaching staff will also be dealing with changes for next season, especially on the offensive side of the ball. Quarterback Christopher Vizzina will receive his first opportunity as Clemson’s starter after patiently waiting behind Klubnik.

Vizzina had one start in 2025 against the SMU Mustangs, completing 29 of 42 pass attempts for 317 yards and three touchdowns. His strong efforts in the lone start last season proved enough to Swinney that he can take over the reins for the 2026 season.

Game odds refresh periodically and are subject to change.

If you or someone you know has a gambling problem and wants help, call 1-800-GAMBLER.

Clemson Roundtable also offers a fan community and message board. We’d love to have you join us to talk all things Clemson. Click the “Join” button at the top of the page to join our community for free.