LSU enters 2026 with a roster built to make noise, and the Tigers’ offense could be the part that really starts humming by the time Texas shows up in Baton Rouge on Nov. 14.
Lane Kiffin now has a new quarterback to work with in Sam Leavitt, one of the nation’s top transfer additions. Leavitt helped Arizona State win the Big 12 championship in 2024, then saw injuries derail his 2025 season. When he’s right, though, he brings the kind of dual-threat ability that can tilt a game, and he looks like a strong match for Kiffin’s aggressive system.
He won’t be operating alone. LSU also added transfer receivers Jayce Brown, Winston Watkins Jr. and Jackson Harris, giving Leavitt a fresh group of playmakers to lean on. Put a healthy Leavitt in Kiffin’s offense, and the Tigers have the pieces for a top-tier SEC attack.
The concern comes up front. Even after landing former Colorado standout Jordan Seaton, LSU’s offensive line remains one of the biggest questions on the roster.
The Tigers tore that unit down and rebuilt it after a rough 2025, bringing in 11 transfers to try to steady the trenches. Seaton, who allowed zero sacks last season, should lock down the left tackle job quickly, but that kind of overhaul does not come without risk.
Only two starters are back, and that leaves chemistry as a real issue. Against a front like Texas, those growing pains could show up fast.
On the other side of the ball, LSU looks much more settled. The Tigers bring back one of the SEC’s more experienced defenses and reinforced it heavily through the portal. Whit Weeks remains the centerpiece at linebacker, and the defensive line has a chance to be the best in the country.
Princewill Umanmielen and Tennessee Jordan Ross give LSU serious edge pressure, while Dominick McKinley, Stephiylan Green and Malik Blocton form a strong interior group. Add in Blake Baker’s aggressive approach, and LSU has the kind of physical defense that can make life miserable for Arch Manning and Texas’ weaker offensive line.
That’s the matchup that could swing everything. If LSU wins the battle at the line of scrimmage, the Tigers will have a real chance to make Texas uncomfortable in one of college football’s toughest road environments.
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