
For the first time since 1990, Vanderbilt (6-1, 2-1) has beaten LSU (5-2, 2-2).
LSU traveled to Nashville on Saturday and found itself shell-shocked by the red-hot Commodores, 31-24.
“Vanderbilt was the better team today because they executed at a higher level,” LSU coach Brian Kelly said. “Defensively, we didn’t get enough stops and offensively, we have to score touchdowns not field goals.”
For most of this season, LSU has relied on its staunch defense to carry a struggling offense.
Today, LSU’s defense struggled in a big way. Despite an improved performance, LSU’s offense was unable to step up to the plate.
Vanderbilt outgained LSU 399-325 and won the time of possession battle by 13 minutes.
Vanderbilt scored on five of its first six drives with four touchdown drives of nine or more plays.
Quite simply, LSU had no answers for Vanderbilt star quarterback Diego Pavia.
The numbers don’t tell the complete story, but Pavia completed 14 of 22 passes for 160 yards and a touchdown while adding 86 yards and a pair of touchdowns on the ground.
LSU’s defense was down a few key players, including lineman Whit Weeks, and defensive linemen Bernard Gooden, Jimari Butler and Gabriel Reliford.
LSU safety AJ Haulcy was one of the lone bright spots for LSU’s defense, leading the way with 13 tackles.
LSU quarterback Garrett responded with his best game of the season; however, even that was not enough.
Nussmeier completed 19 of 28 passes for 225 yards and two touchdowns with no turnovers.
LSU even showed improvement in the running game with Caden Durham leading the way with 59 yards on seven carries.
After adjusting for sacks, LSU ran for 5.9 yards per carry.
Unfortunately, it was all for naught as LSU’s playoff hopes now rely on the Tigers winning out.