LSU Defense Stifles South Carolina in 20–10 Homecoming Win at Death Valley

Photo By: Bayou State Media Staff: Sam Becker Rodriguez

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Under the lights of Death Valley, LSU showed what Louisiana football is built on heart, physicality, and defense. On Homecoming night, the Tigers outlasted South Carolina 20–10, improving to 5–1 on the season behind a gritty defensive performance and a breakout showing from freshman tight end Trey’Dez Green.

It wasn’t perfect, three turnovers kept the Gamecocks in it longer than expected, but LSU’s composure, especially in the fourth quarter, told the story of a team beginning to mature under pressure.

First Quarter – Early Miscues, Then a Gut Check

LSU’s offense opened with rhythm but stumbled at the goal line when a fumble wiped away what looked like a sure touchdown. The mistake gave South Carolina early life, and the Gamecocks struck fast, running back Matt Fuller broke free for a 72-yard touchdown late in the first quarter to put them up 7–3.

It was a sudden gut check for LSU’s defense, but one they handled well. From that point on, the Tigers clamped down and made South Carolina fight for every yard.

Second Quarter – Trey’Dez Green Arrives

The second quarter belonged to LSU’s offense and its rising star, Trey’Dez Green. Quarterback Garrett Nussmeier orchestrated a six-play, 72-yard drive capped by a pinpoint fade to Green, who high-pointed the ball for a 10–7 LSU lead.

Green’s breakout couldn’t have come at a better time. The 6’6” freshman finished with eight catches for 119 yards and a touchdown, the first LSU tight end to surpass 100 yards in over two decades, giving the Tigers a legitimate red-zone and seam threat moving forward.

Defensively, LSU started to find its identity. Safety Tamarcus Cooley jumped a route for a key interception, while the defensive line consistently pressured quarterback LaNorris Sellers into rushed throws. Though Nussmeier later threw an interception of his own, LSU took a 10–7 lead into halftime with confidence and control.

Third Quarter – Explosiveness and Execution

South Carolina tied the game early in the third with a 47-yard field goal, but LSU responded instantly with one of its most impressive drives of the night.

On just the fourth play, Nussmeier connected with wide receiver Kyle Parker across the middle. Parker caught it in stride and exploded downfield for a 43-yard touchdown, sending the Death Valley crowd into a roar. LSU reclaimed the lead, 17–10, and never trailed again.

Nussmeier finished 20-of-31 for 254 yards, two touchdowns, and two interceptions, an up-and-down stat line that still showed leadership and command in critical moments. His chemistry with Green and Parker continues to develop, offering LSU a glimpse of the offense’s ceiling when execution matches talent.

While the Tigers moved the ball efficiently, red-zone execution and turnover discipline remain areas for growth. LSU’s running game, however, quietly anchored the offense — a balanced ground attack totaling over 160 yards helped wear down South Carolina’s front seven and kept drives alive late.

Fourth Quarter – Defense Closes It Out

When it mattered most, LSU’s defense played its best football of the season. South Carolina drove deep into Tiger territory twice in the final quarter, but both times the defense stood tall. Cornerback Mansoor Delane’s fourth-down pass breakup midway through the quarter stopped the Gamecocks’ last real threat.

On the ensuing possession, LSU methodically bled the clock and capped the drive with a 22-yard field goal by Damian Ramos to make it 20–10. From there, the Tigers’ defense slammed the door, forcing hurried throws and keeping everything in front of them until the final whistle.

Key Highlights

• Trey’Dez Green’s breakout: Eight catches, 119 yards, and a touchdown, a statement performance from a freshman who’s already turning heads.

• Kyle Parker’s spark: His 43-yard score re-energized the offense and showcased LSU’s vertical potential.

• Defensive discipline: LSU held South Carolina to just 10 points and forced two turnovers, delivering their most complete defensive performance of the season.

• Ground game balance: A 160-yard rushing effort provided stability and helped LSU control tempo late in the game.

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What This Win Means for LSU

This wasn’t about perfection, it was about progression. LSU showed resilience, physical toughness, and the ability to respond to adversity in real time. For a team still tightening its execution, that’s growth you can build on.

The Tigers will travel to Vanderbilt next week with a chance to clean up turnovers and continue sharpening red-zone efficiency. If this defense keeps trending upward and Nussmeier maintains command, LSU could enter the second half of the season as one of the most balanced teams in the SEC West.

What’s Next for South Carolina

South Carolina’s early energy tested LSU, but their offense struggled to sustain drives against the Tigers’ defensive front. The Gamecocks showed flashes, including Fuller’s long touchdown run, but inconsistency and stalled possessions proved costly. They’ll look to rebound next week against Oklahoma in what will be a crucial test of their offensive identity.

Final Thoughts

This was LSU football the way Louisiana remembers it, physical, punishing, and powered by defense. The offense showed flashes of brilliance, the defense showed growth, and the entire team showed heart.

It wasn’t flawless, but it was foundational, the kind of win that builds belief heading into the stretch of SEC play.

If this version of LSU keeps showing up, Death Valley won’t just be loud, it’ll be feared again.

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