College football’s Week 3 schedule features several ranked matchups and rivalry games, but the marquee contest is No. 7 LSU’s trip to No. 8 Ole Miss on Saturday at 7:30 p.m. ET on ABC. The game carries significant narrative weight as LSU coach Lane Kiffin’s return to face a program he previously coached, dubbed the “REVENGE” game by ESPN’s preview.
The atmosphere and off-field circumstances have added layers to the matchup. According to ESPN, there will be an “enhanced law enforcement presence” at the game. Additionally, LSU defensive end Princewill Umanmielen was served court papers at the LSU football complex Tuesday in relation to an Ole Miss breach-of-contract lawsuit. Most notably, LSU listed quarterback Sam Leavitt as doubtful on Wednesday despite no prior injury report, later revealing he was dealing with a potential shoulder issue.
Leavitt’s status remains uncertain heading into the game. If he cannot play, either Husan Longstreet or Elon transfer Landen Clark would make their respective first career starts in what ESPN describes as “an incredible time in an incredible atmosphere.”
On the field, the matchup features a strength-versus-strength dynamic. Ole Miss has maintained offensive efficiency through running back Kewan Lacy and quarterback Trinidad Chambliss, who has connected with receivers Deuce Alexander and Horatio Fields on 22 of 25 passes. However, Lacy has averaged only 4.9 yards per carry thus far. LSU’s defense ranks as the most efficient in the country.
LSU’s offense, meanwhile, struggled in its Week 2 performance against Louisiana Tech. Leavitt threw three interceptions and took four sacks, while running back Dilin Jones managed only 3 yards on 10 carries. The LSU offensive line found better rhythm in the second half but faces a test against an Ole Miss defensive front that has been disruptive, particularly against the run.
Ole Miss’s defense allowed several big plays in Week 1 against Louisville but has remained solid overall. ESPN notes this could force either Leavitt or a backup quarterback into difficult down-and-distance situations.
The betting line stands at LSU -2.5, with SP+ projecting LSU to win by 6.3 points and FPI projecting a 5.3-point LSU victory. ESPN describes the game as potentially “the most fascinating game of 2026 thus far.”
Key facts
- LSU QB Sam Leavitt listed as doubtful with shoulder issue; backup options Husan Longstreet or Landen Clark may start
- LSU’s defense ranks most efficient in the country; Ole Miss has strong rush defense and disruptive front
- Ole Miss QB Trinidad Chambliss has 22 completions on 25 attempts to receivers Deuce Alexander and Horatio Fields
- LSU lost offensive line battle last week against Louisiana Tech; Leavitt threw 3 INTs and took 4 sacks
- Enhanced law enforcement presence planned at Ole Miss stadium; LSU DE Umanmielen served court papers related to Ole Miss lawsuit
- Current line: LSU -2.5; SP+ projection: LSU by 6.3; FPI projection: LSU by 5.3