Joel Klatt's Week 1 College Football Picks

The 2026 college football season kicks off on Thursday night, featuring a five-day schedule with multiple games. Joel Klatt, FOX Sports' Lead College Football Analyst, provided his predictions for the week's major matchups on his podcast.

Klatt anticipates that LSU will defeat Clemson with a score of 31-14, citing the strength of LSU's defense and the experience of their players. He believes that the team's ability to execute their game plan will be crucial for their success.

In the Ole Miss versus Louisville game, Klatt predicts a 30-21 victory for Ole Miss, highlighting the unique skills of quarterback Trinidad Chambliss as a key factor. He notes that Louisville's new defensive coordinators may struggle to contain Chambliss's dynamic play. Additionally, Klatt expects Oregon to win against Boise State with a score of 42-13, emphasizing Oregon's experienced roster and strong defensive capabilities.