LSU-Alabama Annual Rivalry Pauses in 2027 Under SEC Schedule
LSU coach Lane Kiffin called the end of the Tigers’ annual Alabama matchup “sad” ahead of their November 7, 2026, game in Baton Rouge. The teams are not scheduled to meet in 2027 under the SEC’s new format.
LSU and Alabama will meet on November 7 in Baton Rouge, but their 2026 game will be the last in a run of annual matchups dating to 1964. The teams are not set to play each other in 2027, the first break in the series since 1963.
LSU coach Lane Kiffin, who previously worked as Alabama’s offensive coordinator from 2014 to 2016, said he was saddened by the change. He acknowledged that he was not criticizing the decision-makers, but argued that financial considerations often drive changes to rivalries and conference arrangements.
The SEC is moving to a nine-game conference schedule and did not designate LSU-Alabama as a permanent annual game. LSU will continue annual games against Texas A&M, Arkansas and Ole Miss, while Alabama’s yearly opponents will include Auburn, Mississippi State and Tennessee. LSU and Alabama are scheduled to meet again in 2028 and at least every other year after that.
Ahead of the game, Kiffin praised Alabama quarterback Keelon Russell, describing him as an accurate passer who can also run and scramble. He said LSU would need to generate pressure, and also highlighted the speed and explosiveness of Alabama’s receivers. Kiffin said LSU had used part of its bye week to prepare for Alabama and get rest for its banged-up players; both teams were coming off a bye.
The No. 15 Tigers and No. 9 Crimson Tide are each 6-2, with College Football Playoff hopes at stake. Kickoff is scheduled for 3:30 p.m. ET on ABC.