Paul Finebaum and Heather Dinich Crown Clemson in Epic LSU Showdown, Fueling National Title Hype

CLEMSON, SC – The 2025 college football season opener between Clemson and LSU is already one of the most anticipated games of the year, and now, two of ESPN's biggest voices are weighing in with definitive, attention-grabbing predictions! On Get Up, college football insider Heather Dinich and SEC guru Paul Finebaum both went on record, forecasting a victory for Dabo Swinney's Tigers under the lights of Death Valley.

Dinich, known for her sharp College Football Playoff insights, didn't hesitate with her pick. "Clemson will beat LSU in the season opener," she declared, adding a massive prediction: "They’re going to be a serious contender for the national title."

Her confidence stems from Clemson's unprecedented returning talent. "They return 80 percent of their production from last year – more than any team in the FBS," Dinich emphasized. She then highlighted the offensive continuity: "Cade Klubnik will be better. He’s got another season under his belt with Garrett Riley. He’s coming off one of the best seasons in school history and has his top three receivers (Antonio Williams, Tyler Brown, Troy Stellato) returning," along with veteran tight end Jake Briningstool and a powerhouse offensive line.

Dinich also used the platform to advocate for more respect for Clemson, reiterating her stance that they are the most underrated team in the country. "The Clemson Tigers, to me, should be a top-five team, and ESPN's FPI has them at No. 11," she lamented, questioning the computer's logic. She even clashed live on air with LSU alum Ryan Clark, who hyped Garrett Nussmeier as the "best quarterback in football." Dinich's sharp retort: "He might be, but he's going to be going up against one of the best defensive lines in the country. We're on. I'll take that bet, my friend!"

Backing Dinich's bold call, Paul Finebaum echoed her prediction, particularly emphasizing the home-field advantage. "I hate to be obvious here about home field, but that’s about as difficult a home field advantage as there is in college football," Finebaum stated. While he "thinks LSU is really good" and projects them for a playoff spot, he firmly believes, "I don’t, right now, believe they can do it Week 1." Finebaum has previously touted this as Dabo's best team since 2019, but also warned that a fourth straight SEC loss would make it "hard to claim you're a big-time program."

The stage is set for a defining moment. The showdown is scheduled for Friday, August 30, with kickoff at 7:30 p.m. ET on ABC. It marks the first time in nearly a decade Clemson will host a top-tier SEC opponent in a primetime opener at home – a game that could set the tone for the Tigers' entire national title push. ESPN's top analysts have made their picks; now, it's time to see if Death Valley delivers.