Gazette staff picking LSU over USC

On Sunday night the Louisiana State University Tigers face the University of Southern California. This is an early test for the SEC versus the Big 10.

The Alabama Gazette panelists are all picking LSU to be victorious in their opener.

USC started 5 and 0 in 2023; but collapsed down the stretch to a disappoint 7 and 5 finish. A victory over Louisville in the Holiday Bowl on December 27 did little to improve the mood of USC fans. Now USC head coach Lincoln Riley has to replace 2022 Heisman trophy winner and first player taken overall in the NFL draft Caleb Williams.

LSU won the SEC West in 2022, before losing to Georgia in the SEC Championship game. LSU's record in 2023 was similar, but without the same lofty results. LSU lost their opening game to Florida State, a disappointing game to Ole Miss, and then a game to Alabama that cost the Tigers a repeat trip to Atlanta. The Tigers finished the year with a 35 to 31 win over Wisconsin in the ReliaQuest Bowl on January 1. LSU has to replace 2023 Heisman Trophy winning quarterback Jayden Daniels. Kelly is in his second year at LSU. He has had two really good seasons but has not won a championship or made it to the playoffs at LSU.

The Alabama Gazette panel includes Brandon Moseley, Luisa Reyes, Christopher Peeks, and Perry O. Hooper Jr.