Photo By: Bayou State Media Staff
LSU wrapped up its regular season with a commanding 37-17 victory over Oklahoma on Saturday night, fueled by standout performances from quarterback Garrett Nussmeier and wide receiver Chris Hilton. The win marked a spirited end to a season filled with ups and downs, as the Tigers secured two straight victories following a challenging three-game losing streak.
Special teams set the tone early when Aaron Anderson electrified the crowd with a blazing 100-yard kickoff return for a touchdown, swinging momentum firmly in LSU’s favor. The Tigers’ offense capitalized on this energy, with Nussmeier delivering three touchdown passes, including two deep strikes to Hilton that electrified the Tiger Stadium crowd.
Nussmeier briefly exited the game in the second quarter after taking a heavy blind-side sack, but his return was nothing short of inspiring. Shaking off concerns about his shoulder, he connected with Hilton on a 40-yard touchdown pass just before halftime, putting LSU ahead 24-17. “Once I decided I was going back in, there was no holding back,” Nussmeier said. “My job is to lead this team, no matter what.”
Hilton, who battled injuries earlier in the season, reminded everyone of his big-play ability. He followed his first touchdown catch with a 45-yard score on LSU’s opening drive of the third quarter. Hilton’s two catches for 85 yards and two touchdowns earned him a game ball from head coach Brian Kelly. “He’s exactly what this offense needed,” Kelly said, reflecting on Hilton’s journey back to form.
Oklahoma (6-6, 2-6 SEC) showed flashes of promise, briefly taking a 14-10 lead in the second quarter behind a strong drive capped by Xavier Robinson's 2-yard touchdown run. However, LSU quickly regained control after Anderson’s kickoff return and never looked back. Oklahoma's attempts to rally were stifled by LSU’s defense, including an interception by Sage Ryan on a trick-play pass from Sooners tight end Bauer Sharp.
The Sooners’ quarterback, Jackson Arnold, led the team in both passing and rushing, finishing with 110 passing yards and 75 rushing yards. Head coach Brent Venables, however, lamented his team’s inability to limit LSU’s explosive plays. “We gave up too many big moments, and in this league, you can’t afford that,” Venables said.
For LSU, the win signals a positive finish to what could have been a derailed season. “This team played with heart when people thought they had nothing left to fight for,” Kelly said proudly. He even hinted at grander aspirations for the program: “We’re building something special here, and we’ll see you at the national championship soon enough.”
Key Takeaways
LSU: The Tigers ended the regular season on a high note, showcasing resilience and growth. With a chance to secure nine wins for a third straight year, the team appears to be trending upward under Kelly’s leadership.
Oklahoma: The Sooners faced a tough first season in the SEC, with inconsistencies in their play proving costly. Their late-season win over Alabama, however, provides hope as they prepare for their bowl game.
LSU’s victory was a testament to perseverance, leaving fans optimistic about the team’s future trajectory under Brian Kelly.