LSU Defeats Clemson 17-10, Ending Season-Opening Losing Streak
LSU overcame a five-game losing streak in season openers with a 17-10 victory over No. 4 Clemson on September 2, 2023. This marked LSU’s first season-opening win since their triumphant campaign led by record-setting quarterback Joe Burrow in 2019, when the team claimed the CFP national championship. The much-anticipated matchup showcased the potential of NFL prospects Garrett Nussmeier and Cade Klubnik, but it was LSU’s defense that captured the spotlight, shutting out Clemson in the second half and limiting their rushing yards to merely 31.
Head coach Brian Kelly expressed pride in his team’s resilience, highlighting their ability to brush aside critics. “You’ve got to have some grit and you’ve got to have character,” Kelly stated, emphasizing that the players remained focused despite outside doubts.
Last year, LSU’s season opener ended in frustration with a loss to USC, which led to a visibly upset Kelly. Reflecting on the previous season’s challenges, he stated, “We’re sitting here again … talking about the same things, about not finishing when you have an opponent in a position to put ’em away.” This time, LSU demonstrated a stronger finish, taking the lead in the fourth quarter and securing the win.
As LSU pulled ahead with Nussmeier’s 8-yard touchdown pass to tight end Trey’Dez Green, the defense rose to the occasion. They halted Clemson’s offense on a crucial fourth down at the LSU 33-yard line, followed by a three-and-out on the next drive. With less than a minute left, linebacker Harold Perkins Jr. pressured Klubnik into an incomplete pass, sealing the victory for LSU.
Kelly acknowledged the improvements made on defense after LSU struggled throughout the previous season, finishing 14th in the SEC in scoring defense. The team invested approximately $18 million in roster enhancements, which included significant contributions from newcomers such as defensive ends Patrick Payton and Jack Pyburn and cornerback Mansoor Delane.
Even with only two sacks, the LSU defense effectively disrupted Klubnik’s gameplay. He completed 19 of 38 passes for 230 yards and one interception. Perkins, returning from a knee injury, showcased his talent with 1.5 tackles for loss and one sack. Defensive coordinator Blake Baker praised Perkins, noting, “There were some really, really good things… His effort and intensity were special.”
While LSU’s offense had its challenges, including two costly fumbles, the team amassed 354 total yards and achieved 25 first downs. Nussmeier’s performance was notable, completing 28 of 38 passes with one touchdown. “It’s exciting for our program,” Nussmeier remarked about the victory, emphasizing its potential to boost momentum and confidence.
Looking ahead, LSU is set to play three consecutive home games against Louisiana Tech, No. 15 Florida, and Southeast Louisiana before returning to the road. “These wins are big,” Kelly stated. “There’s a boomerang effect, but they had confidence coming into this game. We just need to keep doing what we’re doing.”
