Lightning near Tiger Stadium delayed the highly anticipated LSU-Clemson season opener and Lane Kiffin’s debut as Tigers head coach.

Updated on: Sep 6, 2026, 06:31:10 IST

Prefer HTon Google

Share via
Copy link

Lightning around Tiger Stadium forced a weather delay before Saturday night’s marquee LSU vs Clemson season opener in Baton Rouge. The kick-off was scheduled at 6:30 pm CT (7:30 pm ET). However, one of the most anticipated games of Week 1 was halted under standard lightning safety protocols, according to On3.

Wilson Alexander of On3 later reported that players and staff returned to the field, and the projected kickoff was moved to 8:40 pm CT after officials monitored the weather.

The game marks Lane Kiffin’s debut as LSU head coach, adding even more attention to an opener that features two of college football’s biggest programs. ABC is broadcasting the nationally televised matchup.

Deep Dive

Powered ByAsk

Why was LSU vs Clemson delayed?

The delay was triggered by lightning near the Tiger Stadium. Hence, everyone on the field to leave until conditions met established safety guidelines. Stadium officials followed standard NCAA and venue protocols, which require play to remain suspended until a specified period passes without nearby lightning.

Weather forecasts had already warned that showers and thunderstorms were likely across the Baton Rouge area on Saturday afternoon and evening. The National Weather Service forecast included a high chance of thunderstorms.

Death Valley was overrun with lightning and rain. Additionally, fans were seen searching inside Tiger Stadium for cover.

While fans waited inside and around the stadium, social media filled with updates from reporters covering the delay. A little after 7:30 pm, several media personnel noticed the sun emerging, which was a fairly good event.

Latest LSU vs Clemson start time

As of the latest update, the projected kickoff is 8:40 pm CT, though officials indicated that the timing remained subject to weather conditions. Players returned to the field to continue warmups once the lightning threat eased.

The season opener carries significant weight for both programs.

For LSU, it marks the beginning of the Lane Kiffin era after the Tigers entered the season ranked No. 11. Clemson, meanwhile, opens its campaign looking to rebound after an unranked preseason, making the contest one of the marquee non-conference games of opening weekend.

The game has also drawn attention because of LSU’s offseason storyline involving players Dae’Quan Wright and Zxavian Harris, who were left off the roster amid an ongoing legal dispute over SEC eligibility rules.

Officials are expected to provide additional updates if weather conditions change again. Fans attending the game have been advised to continue following announcements from LSU Athletics and stadium personnel.

See Less