In 1986, Hodson went to Louisiana State University (LSU). As quarterback for LSU's football team, Hodson led LSU to two SEC Championships, first as a freshman (1986) and then as a junior (1988). During his 44 regular season games at LSU (1986–1989), Hodson passed for 9,115 yards and 69 touchdowns, becoming the first quarterback in SEC history to surpass 8,000 career passing yards, and the first quarterback in SEC history to surpass 60 career passing touchdowns. Hodson passed for over 2,000 yards during each of his four seasons at LSU, becoming the third player in NCAA history to achieve that feat. During his freshman season, Hodson was voted first team All-SEC, becoming the first LSU quarterback to be awarded that honor since the legendary Bert Jones (first team All-SEC, 1972). Hodson was selected first team All-SEC during each of his four seasons at LSU, the only player in school history to achieve that feat.