Lane Kiffin returns to Oxford as LSU’s head coach tonight, with Pete Golding’s Ole Miss team waiting at Vaught-Hemingway Stadium. Both programs are 2-0 entering the 7:30 p.m. ET game on ABC.

LSU has beaten Clemson 51-10 and Louisiana Tech 45-14. Ole Miss opened with a 41-38 win over Louisville before defeating Charlotte 41-9, setting up a meeting between two offenses that have started quickly.

My LSU vs Ole Miss prediction weighs the Tigers’ defensive production and their offensive now that Sam Leavitt is expected to start. The prediction, best picks and updated market prices follow.

Prediction | Best picks | Updated odds

I’m picking LSU to win in Oxford, with the Tigers’ pass rush making the difference. Sam Leavitt has gone from doubtful to questionable to now expected to start over the course of the last few days, and his availability was the key to me ultimately siding the Tigers. See our Kalshi promo code guide for the current offer.

Leavitt has thrown for 574 yards and accounted for nine total touchdowns through two games. I like how his passing complements a rushing attack that has already produced 456 yards and eight scores. That balance gives LSU more ways to sustain drives than relying on one receiver to win downfield.

LSU’s defense is the biggest reason I favor the Tigers. They have allowed 12 points and 221.5 yards per game, with 10 sacks and 17 tackles for loss through two outings. I expect that pressure to disrupt Ole Miss often enough to give LSU the edge in a close game.

Trinidad Chambliss has thrown for 561 yards and five touchdowns for the Rebels. I expect LSU to make him work through longer passing situations by winning on early downs. A sack or tackle for loss can be especially costly here, forcing Ole Miss away from the quick completions that keep its offense moving.