Paul Finebaum Sees National Championship Potential in Resurgent College Program

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Jaron Spor | Last updated May 17, 2025 11:00 AM ET

The 2024 college football season introduced a new twist to the playoff format that fans have come to expect. The College Football Playoff expanded from a four-team format to a 12-team format.

This change allowed six teams to qualify for the playoffs for the first time, while six other teams returned to the postseason tournament. The expansion also heightened the excitement of the regular season, as more teams had the chance to make the playoffs, meaning that every regular-season game carried greater significance.

One team that experienced the consequences of every game’s importance was the LSU Tigers. After starting the season with a 6-1 record, the Tigers were ranked No. 8 in the country and seemed well-positioned for a playoff berth. However, they suffered three consecutive losses, all by double digits, which ended their chances of making the playoffs.

A caller on "The Paul Finebaum Show" reached out to discuss LSU's upcoming season. He mentioned that he plans to place a bet on LSU to make it to the national championship game and asked for Finebaum's thoughts on his bet. Finebaum responded that the Tigers do have a chance.

"I think you have a chance," Finebaum said. " ... I think LSU ought to get into the playoff before we start worrying about the championship game."

The Tigers have not made the playoffs since 2019, when they won the national championship under quarterback Joe Burrow. Since Brian Kelly took over as head coach before the 2022 season, LSU has come close to securing a playoff berth but has not quite succeeded. The Tigers won 10 games in two of the last three seasons and reached the SEC Championship Game in 2022. However, they have never finished higher than No. 13 in the final College Football Playoff rankings.

This year brings renewed optimism after a 9-4 season. The Tigers return 62% of their production, which ranks No. 38 in the country. The key returning player is quarterback Garrett Nussmeier, who threw for 4,052 yards, 29 touchdowns and 12 interceptions in his first year as the starter last season. Additionally, LSU has brought in the top transfer portal class.

LSU will open the season with a significant game against the Clemson Tigers on Aug. 30 at 7:30 p.m. ET. LSU has not won an opening game since 2019.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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