FOX Sports' lead college football analyst, Joel Klatt, has revealed his predictions for several marquee matchups in Week 1 of the 2026 college football season. Klatt highlighted games featuring LSU, Clemson, Ole Miss, Louisville, Oregon, and Boise State in the latest episode of "The Joel Klatt Podcast."

For the LSU versus Clemson game, Klatt expressed confidence in LSU's defense, particularly with defensive coordinator Blake Baker returning. He cited the transfer of defensive end Princewill Umanmielen from Ole Miss and the presence of linebacker Whit Weeks as key strengths. With an experienced quarterback in Sam Leavitt and a typically strong offense under coach Lane Kiffin, Klatt anticipates LSU will dominate.

Klatt's Prediction: LSU 31, Clemson 14.

Turning to the matchup between Ole Miss and Louisville, Klatt acknowledged Louisville's ability to upset strong opponents and noted coach Jeff Brohm's history as the "Spoilermaker" during his time at Purdue. However, he believes Ole Miss possesses too much firepower, especially with quarterback Trinidad Chambliss, whom Klatt described as the nation's most unique dual-threat quarterback. He suggested this dynamic playmaking ability will present significant challenges for Louisville's new co-defensive coordinators, Mark Ivey and Steve Ellis.

Klatt's Prediction: Ole Miss 30, Louisville 21.

In the game between Oregon and Boise State, Klatt sees Oregon as being further along in its development under coach Dan Lanning. He pointed to the team's sense of purpose and urgency, along with the experience of quarterback Dante Moore, as reasons for potential offensive explosiveness. Klatt also anticipates a suffocating defense from Oregon. While he noted a question mark regarding the offensive coordinator position with Drew Mehringer's promotion, he believes Oregon's defensive line should control the game, even if the offense struggles. Klatt highlighted that Boise State lost four of its five starting defensive backs from the previous year, potentially opening opportunities for Oregon's offense.

Klatt's Prediction: Oregon 42, Boise State 13.

The 2026 college football season kicks off with a five-day slate of games beginning Thursday night.