The 10 People Who Will Decide LSU's Playoff Fate

Lane Kiffin's first LSU team has the talent to contend for a College Football Playoff berth—but only if the right people deliver. From coordinators to stars and newcomers, these are the 10 individuals who could determine whether the Tigers return to college football's biggest stage.

By Bryan Lazare

August 3, 2026

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Photo by LSU

LSU will begin its first preseason practice under coach Lane Kiffin on Wednesday morning.

Exactly one month later, Kiffin will coach his first game for LSU against Clemson in Tiger Stadium.

Everyone knows the present status of the LSU football program. The Tigers have the task of rebounding from a 7-6 season in which coach Brian Kelly was fired in late October.

More importantly, LSU has not participated in the College Football Playoffs since winning the national championship in 2019.

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