LSU's Exhaustive Efforts to Prevent Maason Smith's Suspension

LSU star defensive tackle Maason Smith will be suspended for the season opener against Florida State due to impermissible benefits from an autograph signing. LSU appealed the suspension and explored scheduling a Week Zero game to serve the suspension earlier, but both attempts were unsuccessful. Smith, who suffered a season-ending injury last year, will serve the suspension on September 3. Despite a sprained ankle, Smith's return will be eagerly anticipated for LSU's game against Grambling State on September 9.