LSU star defensive tackle Maason Smith will not play in the season-opener vs. Florida State Sept. 3 while serving a one-game NCAA-mandated suspension, according to a report Wednesday by NOLA.com.

Smith, a preseason All-SEC pick this season, reportedly received an improper benefit. He will be eligible to return for the Sept. 9 game vs. Grambling State.

The 6-foot-6, 315-pound Smith suffered a season-ending injured in the first quarter of last season’s opener vs. Florida State, but has returned to health for 2023. He was a Freshman All-America pick in 2021, when he totaled 19 tackles, five tackles for loss and four sacks.

The loss of Smith is a major blow for the Tigers, who are ranked No. 5 in both major preseason polls. Florida State, which won last year’s meeting with LSU 24-23 in New Orleans, is ranked No. 8 in the preseason.

LSU and Florida State meet at 6:30 p.m. on Sept. 3 at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Fla. The Sunday night game will be televised by ABC.