In a thrilling SEC matchup, No. 18 Vanderbilt defeated No. 10 LSU 31-24 on Saturday at FirstBank Stadium in Nashville, Tennessee. The game showcased the impressive performance of Vanderbilt’s quarterback Diego Pavia, who threw for 160 yards and rushed for an additional 86 yards.
Game Highlights
Vanderbilt’s offense dominated the clock, maintaining possession for 36 minutes and 33 seconds compared to LSU’s 23 minutes and 27 seconds. The Commodores’ rushing attack was particularly effective, amassing 239 yards, including notable contributions from running backs Sedrick Alexander and Makhilyn Young.
- LSU quarterback Garrett Nussmeier completed 225 yards and threw two touchdowns.
- Tight end Trey’Dez Green was LSU’s standout receiver with five receptions for 74 yards and one touchdown.
- LSU’s rushing attack totaled 100 yards, with Harlem Berry and Caden Durham leading the effort.
First Half Recap
The game kicked off with LSU drawing first blood as Damian Ramos hit a 48-yard field goal, providing the Tigers a 3-0 lead in the first quarter. Vanderbilt responded with a nine-play scoring drive, capped off by Pavia’s sneak from the one-yard line, shifting the lead to 7-3.
In the second quarter, Nussmeier connected with Trey’Dez Green for a 24-yard touchdown, regaining the lead at 10-7. However, Vanderbilt showcased resilience, completing a 14-play drive, ending with a one-yard touchdown rush from Sedrick Alexander. Pavia’s dual-threat ability kept LSU on the back foot throughout the half.
Second Half Action
Vanderbilt extended their lead to 24-13 early in the third quarter when Pavia threw to Cole Spence for another touchdown. LSU responded with a dynamic 62-yard touchdown from Zavion Thomas, bringing the score to 24-21. Nonetheless, Vanderbilt stormed back with another rushing touchdown from Pavia, establishing a 31-21 advantage.
LSU managed to get back on the scoreboard with a 23-yard field goal from Ramos, closing the gap to 31-24. However, they couldn’t secure further points as Vanderbilt’s offense successfully ran out the clock, sealing the victory.
Looking Ahead
This loss pushed LSU’s record to 5-2 overall and 2-2 in the SEC. The Tigers will return home to face Texas A&M next Saturday at 6:30 p.m. as they seek to recover from this setback.
