LSU Will Be Without Key Starter In Week 1 Matchup Against USC

One of the marquee matchups in Week 1 of the college football season is the LSU Tigers and USC Trojans facing off on Sunday in Las Vegas.

Both teams enter the year ranked in the top 25, and both programs lost their starting quarterbacks to the NFL Draft. USC's Caleb Williams and LSU's Jayden Daniels were not only the two previous Heisman Trophy winners, but they were the top two picks in the 2024 NFL Draft.

Shortly before the game, LSU was dealt a crushing blow to one of their starters, wide receiver Chris Hilton Jr. Despite being listed as a starter on the depth chart, Hilton will not suit up for the game, per a report from Wilson Alexander.

"Chris Hilton is not dressing out," Alexander wrote. "Expect Kyle Parker to start for LSU in his place."

Hilton was listed as questionable all week as he was nursing a bone bruise. Earlier in the week, reports stated that he was progressing and could potentially play in the game.

However, he is not able to suit up and will be watching from the sidelines.

Hilton is entering his junior season but played just two games in 2022. In 2023, he played seven games and caught 10 passes for 169 yards and a score as he dealt with injuries.

However, Hilton was expected to be a big part of the LSU offense, with quarterback Garrett Nussmeier taking over for Daniels.

In Hilton's absence, it will be redshirt freshman Kyle Parker getting the start.

Related: USC Turning Heads With Week 1 Hype Video