Paul Finebaum Predicts SEC Powerhouse Will Just Miss College Football Playoff

After two consecutive 10-win seasons, the LSU Tigers are poised to make a comeback in the College Football Playoff for the first time since their 2019 victory.

The Tigers will have to proceed without Heisman Trophy winner quarterback Jayden Daniels and two first-round picks, wide receivers Malik Nabers and Brian Thomas Jr. However, there is still optimism in Baton Rouge. The new starting quarterback, Garrett Nussmeier, had an impressive showing in the bowl game, throwing for 395 yards, three touchdowns, and one interception with a 68.9% completion percentage.

ESPN's Paul Finebaum believes the Tigers will almost make the inaugural 12-team College Football Playoff but ultimately fall short.

"I think they come oh so close but don't quite get there," Finebaum said.

The Tigers will face a challenging schedule in their quest for the playoffs this season. LSU's first game is against the No. 23 USC Trojans, and they will also play four other preseason-ranked teams.

LSU's toughest stretch comes in the middle of the season. In four consecutive games, LSU will face No. 6 Ole Miss at home, Arkansas on the road, No. 20 Texas A&M on the road and No. 5 Alabama at home, with a bye week between the final two.

If the Tigers can manage that stretch, they could again be playoff-bound.

Related: Major SEC Team Will Miss College Football Playoff, Analyst Says