Paul Finebaum Names Top Five Team That Wouldn't Recover From Week 1 Loss

"To me, I think Clemson has a lot at stake," Finebaum said. "If they lose by a big number, they don't have a way back."

Can Clemson Bounce Back If They Lose to LSU?

Finebaum did not elaborate on why he believes the Tigers would struggle to recover from a home loss to LSU at the start of the season. This game is significant for both teams, but it does not count as a conference loss.

The five highest-rated conference champions still receive automatic bids to the College Football Playoff. Last year, Clemson won the ACC despite finishing the regular season with a 9-3 record. Therefore, if Clemson were to lose to LSU, there's still a viable path to playoff contention. Perhaps Finebaum is suggesting that a significant loss in a big game could lead to a downward spiral for Clemson for the remainder of the season.

Paul Finebaum Thinks Clemson Is a National Championship Contender

Finebaum believes the first game is crucial for the Tigers, and he has high expectations for them this upcoming season. He has listed them among the teams he thinks can win the national championship.

“I’m starting to think who I would put in there,” Finebaum previously said. “I’m going to go through a couple of names: Texas, Alabama, Oregon, Penn State and Clemson.” 

The optimism stems from the considerable talent returning for Clemson this season. The Tigers hold the No. 1 ranking in the nation for returning production, with over 80% back this year.

Quarterback Cade Klubnik had an impressive 2024 season, throwing for 3,639 yards, 36 touchdowns and only six interceptions in his second year as the starter.

During Dabo Swinney's tenure at Clemson, he has a record of 12-4 in opening games. However, he has lost three of his last four openers. Clemson will start the season against LSU at home on Aug. 30 at 7:30 p.m. ET.