Photo by: Ken Ruinard
In a thrilling back-and-forth contest, the LSU Tigers, led by head coach Brian Kelly, narrowly escaped Williams-Brice Stadium with a 36-33 victory over the South Carolina Gamecocks in their SEC opener. The game featured a relentless South Carolina attack, but LSU's resilience and late-game heroics helped secure the win. However, the Tigers’ performance raised concerns about their ability to handle stronger competition in the SEC moving forward.
First Half Recap: South Carolina Strikes First, LSU Battles Back
South Carolina quickly seized the momentum, driving down the field on their opening possession and capping off a 75-yard drive with a rushing touchdown by quarterback LaNorris Sellers. LSU’s offense struggled to find rhythm early, going 3-and-out on its first drive, while the Gamecocks continued to push down the field. A strong defensive play from LSU’s Zy Alexander came in the form of an interception, halting South Carolina’s second drive, but the Tigers couldn’t capitalize.
South Carolina's defense came up big again when Garrett Nussmeier threw an interception, which was fortunately called back due to a horse-collar tackle. Despite LSU’s continued offensive struggles, the Gamecocks extended their lead to 17-0 in the second quarter following a blocked punt and a quick rushing touchdown by Raheim Sanders.
LSU needed a spark, and it came through true freshman running back Caden Durham, who broke a 26-yard touchdown run, trimming the deficit to 17-7. Moments later, Sage Ryan and Harold Perkins forced a South Carolina fumble deep in Gamecock territory, leading to a Damian Ramos field goal that brought LSU within a touchdown. However, Sellers responded with a 75-yard touchdown run to push South Carolina’s lead to 24-10.
As time dwindled in the first half, Nussmeier connected with Kyren Lacy for a 12-yard touchdown, keeping the Tigers within striking distance at halftime, trailing 24-16.
Second Half: LSU's Comeback Takes Shape
The second half began with LSU leaning on its running game, with Kaleb Jackson and Caden Durham making impactful plays. Nussmeier found Aaron Anderson for a massive 44-yard gain, setting the Tigers up deep in South Carolina territory. However, a goal-line stand by the Gamecocks kept LSU off the scoreboard, forcing a turnover on downs.
South Carolina couldn’t capitalize and went 3-and-out, giving LSU another shot. Durham once again broke free for a 9-yard touchdown, pulling LSU within two points, 24-22.
LSU's defense tightened up, forcing another Gamecock punt, and Nussmeier took full advantage, orchestrating a 10-play, 80-yard drive capped off by a Mason Taylor touchdown reception, giving the Tigers their first lead of the game at 29-24.
Fourth Quarter Drama: LSU Hangs On
The Gamecocks quickly countered with Raheim Sanders bursting outside for a 66-yard touchdown. South Carolina missed the two-point conversion but reclaimed the lead, 30-29. After a botched snap from LSU that led to a Gamecocks field goal, South Carolina extended their lead to 33-29 with just under 12 minutes remaining.
The Tigers' defense rose to the occasion once again, forcing a fumble deep in Gamecock territory, but Nussmeier threw an interception in the end zone, giving South Carolina a chance to run out the clock. LSU’s defense delivered one final stand, setting up Nussmeier for one last drive.
With time running out, Nussmeier hit Kyren Lacy for a huge 29-yard gain, setting LSU up inside the five-yard line. Josh Williams punched in the game-winning touchdown with 1:12 remaining, giving LSU a 36-33 lead.
South Carolina had one final chance, but Alex Herrera missed a game-tying field goal, sealing the Tigers’ victory.
Conclusion: LSU Finds a Way, but Warnings Linger
Despite their early struggles, LSU showed grit and determination, securing their first SEC win of the season. Garrett Nussmeier finished with 272 yards and two touchdowns, while Caden Durham shined in the run game with two key touchdowns.
However, this game should be a warning. LSU’s slow start, defensive lapses, and costly penalties nearly handed South Carolina the win. Their inability to control the game early and discipline issues kept the Gamecocks in contention until the very end. If LSU hopes to compete at the highest level in the SEC, these problems must be addressed immediately. Future opponents may not be as forgiving, and relying on last-minute heroics is not a sustainable path to success.
Stay tuned to Bayou State Media for more in-depth analysis and coverage of LSU football throughout the season.