LSU upset No. 4 Clemson 17-10 on the road to claim its first season opener victory in five years.
The ninth-ranked Tigers relied on a defense that held Clemson scoreless in the second half and limited the home team to just 32 rushing yards.
Defense delivers when it matters
LSU’s defense made three crucial stops in the final quarter. The Tigers forced a turnover on downs at the 33-yard line, then recorded a three-and-out on Clemson’s next possession.
Harold Perkins Jr. sealed the victory by pressuring quarterback Cade Klubnik into an incompletion on the final drive in the red zone.
Perkins, who’s returning from an ACL injury suffered last season, finished with 1.5 tackles for loss, one sack and two quarterback pressures.
Offensive execution in key moments
Garrett Nussmeier connected with tight end Trey’Dez Green for an 8-yard touchdown early in the fourth quarter that proved to be the game-winner.
Nussmeier completed 28 of 38 passes for 230 yards and one touchdown. LSU finished with 356 total yards and 25 first downs.
The Tigers did commit two first-half fumbles, including one at Clemson’s 12-yard line, but the defense prevented those turnovers from becoming points.
Portal additions make immediate impact
LSU’s defensive transformation showed throughout the game. The Tigers finished 14th in the SEC in scoring defense last season and made major additions through the transfer portal.
Patrick Payton and Jack Pyburn provided edge rushing help. Bernard Gooden added interior line presence.
Mansoor Delane contributed in coverage while Tamarcus Cooley and A.J. Haulcy brought range at the safety position.
Clemson’s Klubnik completed 19 of 38 passes for 230 yards with one interception. LSU recorded just two sacks but consistently pressured the quarterback and closed rushing lanes.
Building momentum at home
LSU returns to Baton Rouge for three straight games: Louisiana Tech, No. 15 Florida, and Southeast Louisiana.
The Tigers have finally broken their season-opening struggles. The question now becomes whether this defensive performance can be sustained throughout the season.
