LSU awakens in second half besting UCLA 34-17

Tiger Stadium may have had a heat index approaching 100 degrees at kickoff, but that hot start certainly didn’t translate to the football team.

After a sloppy first half, LSU (3-1, 1-0) pulled away to defeat UCLA 34-17 Saturday in Tiger Stadium.

“It's been a process for us,” LSU coach Brian Kelly said. “We really found our stride offensively today. and some of the mistakes we make on defense are just maddening.”

UCLA (1-2, 0-1) quarterback Ethan Garbers led the Bruins on a game-tying drive just before halftime scoring a touchdown with just two seconds left in the half. He took a big hit while throwing the 11-yard touchdown to his receiver Logan Loyas tying the game 17-17.

That would be the end of UCLA’s upset bid, as LSU came out in the second half and dominated the game outgaining UCLA 244-89 and shutting out the Bruins 17-0.

LSU quarterback Garrett Nussmeier was once again instrumental in LSU’s success 32 of his 44 passes for 352 yards with three touchdowns and no turnovers.

That went a long way toward LSU outgaining UCLA 454-295.

With 11:15 to play in the fourth quarter, Nussmeier connected with running back Caden Durham for a 35-yard touchdown making it a two-score game.

Nussmeier’s favorite target of the day was tight end Mason Taylor with eight grabs for 77 yards. That was good enough to make him LSU’s all-time career-receiving yardage leader for tight ends.

LSU once again struggled to run the ball consistently, mustering 102 yards on 28 runs. LSU running back Josh Williams led the way with 13 carries for 62 yards and a touchdown.

However thanks to a healthy passing game, and leading the turnover margin 2-0, LSU was able to escape with a three-score victory.

LSU Antigua Interlock Tribute Polo
from: Alumni Hall