| We like to lead off with big news in the LSU newsletter, though I'm not exactly sure coach Brian Kelly saying that running back John Emery won't play against Florida State qualifies. Emery's on-again, off-again LSU career is off again, at least for the moment, going into the season opener. The Tigers still have seven other running backs, but in a game as tight as this one I'm sure Kelly wishes it was all hands on deck. That's especially true since LSU has made a point of emphasis creating more explosive offensive plays this season. One of the big matchups in Sunday's game (6:30 p.m. CDT, ABC) is LSU left tackle Will Campbell against FSU defensive end Jared Verse. Offensive line is anticipated to be one of the Tigers' strengths this season, and will have to be if LSU is to survive this one. The Week 1 picks are in from AP college football writer Ralph Russo. Click here to see who he picked in the game of the week between the Tigers and Seminoles. Our sports betting krewe also weighs in with their picks against the spread on the first big weekend of college football. Finally, we've got news on the new date for that big statue unveiling of Louisiana Tech sports legends up in Ruston that of course includes one of LSU women's basketball coach Kim Mulkey. That's all for now. We'll bring you our next newsletter from Orlando. Until we're on Florida time, Scott Rabalais | 