LSU Defense Smothers Florida in 20-10 Victory

Photo By: LSU ATHLETICS : Kristen Young

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No. 3 LSU leaned on its defense Saturday night in Baton Rouge, forcing five interceptions from Florida quarterback DJ Lagway to secure a 20-10 win and open SEC play on a strong note. The Tigers’ offense was uneven, but timely plays and a pick-six by Dashawn Spears proved enough to overcome Florida’s statistical edge in yardage and first downs

First Quarter

Florida struck first midway through the opening frame. After LSU’s first few possessions ended in punts, the Gators drove into field-goal range and kicker Trey Smack converted from 45 yards out at the 11:34 mark for a 3-0 lead. Florida appeared to extend that advantage later with an 87-yard touchdown run, but the play was wiped out by a holding penalty.

The quarter also brought an early blow to LSU’s defense as linebacker Whit Weeks was ejected for targeting. Despite the setback, the Tigers held firm and trailed only 3-0 at the end of the first.

Second Quarter

LSU quickly responded in the second. Damian Ramos drilled a 47-yard field goal just seconds into the quarter to tie the game at 3-3. On the next possession, Garrett Nussmeier found Zavion Thomas on a 23-yard touchdown strike, giving LSU a 10-3 lead.

Florida answered with its best offensive drive of the half. DJ Lagway connected with Aidan Mizell on a 10-yard touchdown pass to even the score at 10-10. But Lagway’s struggles began to mount. Just before halftime, LSU’s defense picked him off, setting up Ramos for a 45-yard field goal as time expired. The Tigers carried a 13-10 advantage into the locker room.

Third Quarter

The defining moment came midway through the third. Lagway fired another errant throw, and Dashawn Spears jumped the route, returning the interception 58 yards for a touchdown. The score extended LSU’s lead to 20-10 and sent Tiger Stadium into a frenzy.

Florida tried to answer but failed to capitalize on several opportunities, as penalties and turnovers continued to stall drives. LSU’s offense managed little production in the quarter, but Spears’ defensive touchdown provided all the cushion the Tigers needed.

Fourth Quarter

Both defenses clamped down in the final quarter, and neither team managed to put points on the board. Florida mounted multiple drives into LSU territory, but each ended in frustration. Lagway threw his fifth interception of the night in the closing minutes, sealing the game for the Tigers.

LSU’s offense played conservatively, focusing on clock control and avoiding mistakes. The Tigers leaned on their defense to preserve the two-score lead, and Florida never found a way back.

Key Numbers

Florida finished with more total offense (366 yards to LSU’s 316) and more first downs (23 to 10), but turnovers told the story. Lagway’s five interceptions, including Spears’ pick-six, proved insurmountable. LSU’s lone turnover, a Nussmeier interception in the first half, did little to change momentum.

What the Win Means

For LSU, the victory showcased a defense capable of winning games even when the offense sputters. Nussmeier and Thomas provided a highlight, but it was Spears and the secondary that defined the night. The win moves the Tigers to 1-0 in SEC play and keeps their unbeaten season alive.

Florida, now 1-2, leaves Baton Rouge with more questions than answers. Lagway showed flashes of talent, but his decision-making under pressure cost the Gators dearly. Combined with costly penalties, Florida squandered opportunities to keep pace with one of the nation’s top teams.

In the end, LSU’s 20-10 victory was not the prettiest on paper, but it was gritty and decisive. The Tigers turned Florida’s errors into points, leaned on their defense, and found yet another way to win in Death Valley.

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