As the LSU Tigers officially kicked off their 2025 preseason practices in Baton Rouge, one of the most notable takeaways from the opening session was a reshuffled offensive line. The unit, critical to both pass protection and run game efficiency, lined up with a new combination during the team’s first day on the field—an early indication that head coach Brian Kelly and his staff are open to experimenting ahead of the season opener.
With their season set to begin on August 30 against Clemson—a primetime showdown expected to feature two top-15 teams—the Tigers are working to solidify every phase of their game, especially in the trenches. The matchup, scheduled for 6:30 p.m. CT on ABC, is one of the most anticipated games of college football’s opening weekend and will provide an immediate test of LSU’s physicality and cohesion.
Kelly addressed the changes following practice, noting that while a new lineup was deployed on Day 1, it is far from final. He emphasized that the coaching staff is taking a long-term view when it comes to personnel decisions on the offensive line.
“There’s a lot of time between now and Week 1,” Kelly said. “We’re evaluating combinations, trying to find the best five guys that can play together with chemistry and consistency. What you saw today might not be what you see in a week or even a month.”
The offensive line is one of the most scrutinized areas heading into this season, especially with LSU needing to replace several key starters from last year’s squad. The Tigers’ front five will be tasked with protecting a new starting quarterback and opening lanes for a reloaded running back room, making the need for a solid, cohesive unit more important than ever.
The practice also provided an opportunity to see which players might be taking early leads in the position battles. Veterans and returning starters were mixed in with promising underclassmen and transfers, signaling that experience alone won’t guarantee a starting role. Kelly and offensive line coach Brad Davis appear committed to building a line based on performance, chemistry, and adaptability.
LSU’s offensive identity this season will be shaped significantly by how well the line performs. Known for his balanced offensive philosophy, Kelly has long prioritized stability up front. With a competitive schedule looming—including SEC matchups that demand physical dominance in the trenches—the Tigers are making it clear that no spot on the line is locked down.
Injuries, conditioning, and progress in camp will all factor into how this group ultimately shapes up before the team boards the plane to Clemson. The coaching staff will be watching closely over the coming weeks as different players rotate through roles, build rapport with one another, and try to rise above their peers.
For now, the message from Kelly is simple: don’t read too much into the first practice. But for those following LSU closely, the revamped offensive line offers an early storyline worth monitoring as the Tigers gear up for what could be a statement season opener.