Why LSU's defeat of Clemson might have saved the SEC's season

AI-assisted summary

The win is significant for the SEC after losses by Alabama and Texas to non-conference opponents.

LSU's defense, a previous weakness under coach Brian Kelly, appears to be much improved.

The victory establishes LSU as a potential national championship contender.

CLEMSON, S.C. — Weeks from now, while we’re deep into a crazy ride of a college football season , we’ll look back and marvel at how LSU saved the SEC season out of the gate.

And set itself up for a national championship run.

LSU coach Brian Kelly said this was his best team in four seasons. What he didn’t say was this team had characteristics unlike any he has had in Baton Rouge.

Tough. Smart. Resilient.

In one gut-check of a game, LSU distanced itself from Kelly’s three previous teams with an unde