ESPN analyst breaks down why Clemson’s matchup against LSU is a ‘must-win’

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Clemsonfootball’s season opener against LSU is still weeks away, but one national analyst already believes the game could shape the Tigers’ entire 2026 campaign.

Speaking on the Gramlich and Mac Lain podcast, ESPN and ACC Network analyst EJ Manuel called Clemson’s Sept. 5 trip to Baton Rouge a “must-win,” pointing to both the national spotlight and the potential impact on the College Football Playoff race.

Manuel believes the matchup carries extra weight because it could give Clemson a valuable résumé-building victory before ACC play even begins.

“That’s a must-win to me, guys,” Manuel said. “I’m sure you may not feel the same, but I think for Clemson…to hold the attention of the country, you need to win against LSU.”

The former Florida State quarterback said beating LSU would give Clemson an important advantage if it stumbles later in conference play.

“That is a huge game. And also, that’s a huge notch in Clemson’s belt and their benefit to get into the Playoff later in the year. If they happen to drop one or two in the ACC, so I think that’s a must-win, and whichever QB is going to be out there, handle your business.”

The stakes are especially high because Clemson enters the season with a new-look offense led by returning offensive coordinator Chad Morris and an unsettled quarterback competition. While redshirt junior Christopher Vizzina is currently viewed as the favorite to start, true freshman Tait Reynolds has emerged as a legitimate challenger heading into fall camp.

Former Clemson offensive lineman Eric Mac Lain agreed that the quarterback race remains wide open, pointing to one notable decision by the program.

“The most fascinating piece of it all to me, and I do agree that being there matters some – they’ve got a new coordinator. And Chad Morris doesn’t know jack about either of them.”

Mac Lain also believes Clemson’s decision not to send a quarterback to ACC Kickoff speaks volumes about how close the competition still is.

“I think it is very telling that Clemson is not sending a quarterback to media day (ACC Kickoff) that this is a true competition. That it’s not just lip service. It’s not just, ‘Oh we’ll see.’ Like no, they’re still finding that leader, and it is really important.”

Manuel echoed that sentiment after speaking with Dabo Swinney during the offseason, saying the Clemson coach expressed confidence in both quarterbacks while making it clear the job will ultimately belong to whoever earns it.

Still, regardless of who lines up behind center, Manuel believes Clemson’s first test may end up being its biggest one. A road victory over LSU would immediately strengthen the Tigers’ Playoff résumé while putting them back in the national spotlight. A loss wouldn’t end Clemson’s season, but it could leave much less room for error once ACC competition begins.

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This article originally appeared on Clemson Wire: ESPN analyst breaks down why Clemson’s matchup against LSU is a ‘must-win’

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