LSU football news: Sam Leavitt's first drive doesn't go as planned after Clemson interception

CLEMSON PICKS OFF SAM LEAVITT ON HIS FIRST DRIVE AS AN LSU TIGER 😳 pic.twitter.com/PilrKnQ6nQ

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— ESPN (@espn) September 6, 2026

Leavitt attempted the short throw during the second-and-three scenario, which would’ve been enough for the first down. But Leavitt’s intended receiver botched the catch attempt and fell into Clemson defender Ashton Hampton’s hands.

Clemson never turned the opportunity into a touchdown, though. The other Tigers mustered two yards only during the four-play drive. LSU forced the early field goal to stall that offensive possession as Clemson struck first.

The host Tigers redeemed themselves on the next drive. LSU and Leavitt put together a 10-play drive that ate up 59 yards of offense. The SEC power tacked on a 49-yard field goal to draw even at 3-3.

So LSU started slow on the first two drives. But Kiffin finally watched the offense hit a stride. Leavitt and the offense orchestrated a longer 12-play drive, eating up 89 yards this time. Dilin Jones punched the ball inside the end zone to place LSU ahead 10-3.

KIffin’s LSU opening drew lots of fanfare. Not just limited to the appearance of the country songstress Wilson and Baton Rouge supermodel Nader. Comedian Theo Von also pulled up to Baton Rouge. Even New Orleans Saints edge rusher star Cam Jordan watched from the sidelines. Plus ESPN College GameDay started its season highlighting Kiffin’s debut.

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