Story perspectives

LSU Crushes Clemson 51-10 After Two-Hour Delay

9/7/2026

Summary

Story summary

Lane Kiffin’s LSU Tigers beat Clemson 51-10 in the season opener after a two-hour weather delay, gaining 644 yards.
LSU limited Clemson to 145 yards, forced four sacks, and allowed only one third-down conversion.
Quarterback Sam Leavitt threw for 230 yards, one TD, one INT, and rushed for 113 yards, two TDs.
Kiffin declined to activate two former NFL players despite a court ruling, saying critics heavily targeted him.

History

Historical Context

The NCAA's 1987 “death penalty” against Southern Methodist University football canceled the Mustangs' season, imposed a $1 million fine, and barred scholarships. The sanction followed 55 players receiving improper benefits, and Texas Governor Bill Clements publicly condemned the violations in 1987 nationwide. Today's LSU Tigers, led by Lane Kiffin and quarterback Sam Leavitt, similarly navigate eligibility disputes after a court ruling barred two former NFL players. The SMU precedent warns that repeated violations can cripple programs, prompting schools like LSU to enforce strict compliance to avoid sanctions and revenue loss.

1 of 2

Story summary

Lane Kiffin’s LSU Tigers beat Clemson 51-10 in the season opener after a two-hour weather delay, gaining 644 yards.
LSU limited Clemson to 145 yards, forced four sacks, and allowed only one third-down conversion.
Quarterback Sam Leavitt threw for 230 yards, one TD, one INT, and rushed for 113 yards, two TDs.
Kiffin declined to activate two former NFL players despite a court ruling, saying critics heavily targeted him.

1 / 2