LSU media predicts 10-2 and playoffs for the Tigers

TigerBait polled 25 LSU news media members listed at the bottom of this story, asking them for their regular season win prediction for LSU and their thoughts on what they like and don’t like about this year’s team. The collective response was an average of 9.62 wins, with 16 of the 25 responses predicting LSU to go 10-2.

All but one prediction had LSU finishing either 10-2 or 9-3, with the lone 8-4 pick coming from TigerBait’s Garrett Ross. Many of those predicting 9-3 felt that, given LSU’s difficult schedule, the team would still have a strong chance to make the playoffs.

The top concern among nearly every media member polled was LSU’s offensive line. This follows LSU’s open spring practice sessions, during which the unit gave up eight sacks.

Notably, LSU brought in a pair of five-star offensive linemen Carius Curne‍, Solomon Thomas‍ and high-profile transfer portal linemen such as Josh Thompson and Braelin Moore this Spring.

Despite these additions, LSU still turned to a lineup of exclusively returning players during the spring window. That could indicate the unit is still a work in progress. Until we see them in game action, it’s safe to assume the offensive line will be the team’s biggest question mark.

Outside of that group, other concerns mentioned included the defensive tackles, team chemistry with so many new faces, and offensive play-calling.

Despite those concerns, the media had plenty of praise for the job Brian Kelly has done heading into the season.

LSU quarterback Garrett Nussmeier received near-unanimous praise as one of the team’s biggest strengths. As college football’s leading returning passer, that comes as no surprise. However, some noted a desire to see him improve his decision-making and deep ball accuracy.

Another recurring observation was how senior quarterbacks at LSU often make major strides in their second year as starters. Zach Mettenberger, Joe Burrow, and Jayden Daniels all took significant steps forward in Year 2.

LSU’s defense is another unit expected to improve in its second season under defensive coordinator Blake Baker. Many noted that this could be the most defensive talent LSU has had under Brian Kelly and praised the job Baker did last year with a limited roster.

Nearly half of the media members polled brought up LSU’s season opener at Clemson without being prompted. It’s clear this is no ordinary non-conference matchup. LSU has lost five consecutive season openers, and there’s growing skepticism about Brian Kelly’s ability to have his teams ready in Week 1 after dropping his first three at LSU.

Adding to the pressure is a brutal schedule. LSU is set to face Clemson, Oklahoma, Alabama, Florida, Ole Miss, Texas A&M, and South Carolina — all of which are likely to be ranked in the preseason top 25. Dropping the opener to Clemson and navigating that gauntlet with just one loss would be a tall order.

Based on recent trends, a 9-3 LSU team has only a 20% chance of making the playoffs, while 10-2 has historically resulted in a 100% playoff berth.

Another recurring theme — again mentioned without prompting — was the pressure on Brian Kelly to make the playoffs this year. In his first three seasons at LSU, Kelly has yet to finish better than 9-3 and regressed last year with an 8-4 record. Some responses questioned whether confidence in Kelly would start to erode if he can’t make the playoffs with this roster.

While the likelihood of Kelly being fired is low — he’s owed more than $50 million on his buyout as of December 31, 2025 — missing the playoffs could lead to growing frustration among fans and media alike.

If making the playoffs is the standard, then Brian Kelly should be in good shape — assuming the majority of media predictions are correct.

Media polled includes: Matt Moscona 104.5 ESPN, Jacques Doucet WAFB, Scott Rabalais The Advocate, Jacob Hester 104.5 ESPN, Michael Cauble WBRZ, Hunter McCann WBRZ, Hunt Palmer, Koki Riley The Advocate, Matt Brune On3 LSU, 104.5 ESPN,  Mike Scarborough TigerBait, Preston Guy TigerBait, Bryan Lazare TigerBait, Garrett Ross TigerBait, Grant Chachere TigerBait, Taylor Sharp 104.5 ESPN, Matt Musso 104.5 ESPN, Jordy Holtberg 103.7 The Game, Zack Nagy Sports Illustrated LSU, Jace Lejeune Gridiron Football Louisiana, Ken Trahan Crescent City Sports, Glenn Guilbeau Tiger Rag, John Eads WAFB, Chessa Bouche BR Proud, Buddy Songy CBS Radio, and Brian Holland BR Proud.