ESPN Analysts Split On Clemson-LSU Predictions

On the latest edition of the Mac and Murray Show, ESPN analysts Eric Mac Lain and Aaron Murray both submitted predictions for Clemson’s week one road matchup at No. 11 LSU.

Mac Lain questions whether Lane Kiffin’s team has completely gelled this quickly, considering all of the roster turnover over the offseason.

“I’m fascinated to see what this team for LSU is going to look like, man,” Mac Lain said. “Because I’m looking at the depth chart right now, and on offense, there’s four guys that have worn this jersey before. It’s all new guys…I think we need to take it into account that this is a lot of guys who have never played a game together. And what does that look like? With Sam Leavitt…I don’t think he had any spring. I don’t think he barely had any summer. How are those reps going to be/how is that timing going to be with the receivers? I’m very interested to see.

“I’m 100% taking Clemson. 10.5 is crazy to me, especially with a brand-new team. So give me my Tigers.”

Murray is going the opposite direction, mostly citing Clemson quarterback Chris Vizzina’s lack of experience. Not only is he picking LSU to win, but he’s picking Kiffin’s team to cover the 10.5-point spread.

“I got LSU — I’ll take (LSU to cover) too,” Murray said. “You’re talking about a quarterback, regardless of who they go with, very little playing experience. First game of the season, in that stadium, which is going to be electric. It’s going to be nuts. Blake Baker is a tremendous defensive coordinator. There’s talent on that side of the football at all three levels for LSU. Love their linebackers. I think Lane Kiffin always has a lot of stuff up his sleeve. I think he especially has something up his sleeve for this game. First game, make a statement. Let the country know that I made the right decision by coming to LSU. That we’re here to be contenders in Year 1, which I do believe LSU is a contender in Year 1 to do a lot of really good stuff inside the SEC and obviously as a Playoff team as well. I think they dominate. I really do.

“I would feel better if Clemson had a little bit more of a veteran quarterback on the other side. They just don’t have that, and that just really worries me in an environment like Baton Rouge.”