Heading into July means college football is just around the corner. Each year, the countdown seems to get more exciting. But for LSU football, exciting is putting it simply. The freshly renovated program has huge expectations for the 2026 season, being able to prove their talents through a tough schedule with critical deciding moments. With nine Saturdays until kickoff, here are nine of those make-or-break moments for LSU, in no particular order. 9. The Opening Statement Jan 13, 2020; New Orleans, Louisiana, USA; LSU Tigers running back Clyde Edwards-Helaire (22) is tackled by Clemson Tigers safety Nolan Turner (24) and Clemson Tigers safety Tanner Muse (19) in the College Football Playoff national championship game at Mercedes-Benz Superdome. Mandatory Credit: Stephen Lew-USA TODAY Sports | USA TODAY SportsAs the curtains open for a brand-new LSU football program, a daunting opponent awaits them: the Clemson Tigers. The at-home Labor Day weekend matchup will be the first telltale of Lane Kiffin's program debut. Walking away 1-0 from Clemson, for the second year in a row, would put LSU at an ideal spot for a challenging season to come. Struggling through the game, seeing mistakes made on both sides of the ball, and barely getting by with a win. That's not a game to be celebrated, but one to ask serious questions about what the rest of the season will bring. 8. Overcoming Enemy Territory Energy Quarterback Jayden Daniels runs the ball as the LSU Tigers take on the Ole Miss Rebels at Tiger Stadium in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, USA.Saturday October 22, 2022