LSU upset by Florida 26-17
LSU suffered its third consecutive embarrassing loss Saturday in Gainesville losing to Florida 26-17.
After losing to Texas A&M and Alabama by multiple scores in its last two games, it seemed a trip to a .500 Florida with a hobbled, true freshman backup quarterback was just what the doctor ordered for LSU.
Billy Napier and the Florida Gators had other plans.
LSU actually dominated the box score in most categories for much of this game in most categories except for one - the score.
LSU outgained Florida 382-339, led time of possession 41:43-18:17, led in first down 25-13, and had significantly fewer penalties. In most games, that’s enough to guess it was a blowout. However, it was Florida on the wrong side of all those metrics that found itself the two-score victor.
Despite the lackluster performance, LSU coach Brian Kelly said he had become more involved with the team this week.
“When things don't go well, the head coach has got to be involved,” Kelly said. “The buck stops with me."
Florida was able to sack LSU quarterback Garrett Nussmeier seven times in the game, forcing two fumbles.
Nussmeier completed 27 of his 47 passes for 260 yards a touchdown and no interceptions. His leading target was receiver Aaron Anderson with seven catches for 72 yards and a touchdown.
And to accompany this passing attack, LSU actually ran the ball much better than it had for most of the season. adjusting for sacks, LSU ran the ball for 169 yards for 4.6 yards per carry.
LSU freshman running back Caden Durham was the leading rusher with 91 yards on 20 carries.
On paper it appears Nussmeier outdueled Florida quarterback DJ Lagway who completed 13 of his 26 passes for 226 yards and a touchdown. However, Lagway was able to make big throws in his limited time on the field setting his team up for touchdowns.
Couple that with the 55-yard touchdown run from Florida running back Jadan Baugh late in the fourth quarter, and that’s all Florida needed to pull away from LSU who was forced to settle for four field goals.
And that’s the story of the day for LSU’s defense. it didn’t allow a single drive of ten or more plays. But Florida was able to get it done with big-chunk plays and well-timed touchdowns.
LSU’s leading tackler was freshman linebacker Davhon Keys with five tackles and a pass break up.