In a nail-biting showdown at Tiger Stadium, LSU emerged victorious, edging out a resilient Arkansas team with a final score of 34-31. The game’s climax came when Damian Ramos drilled a chip shot field goal, allowing LSU’s offense to effectively run out the clock in the waning minutes of the contest.
LSU’s offense orchestrated six consecutive scoring drives. The Tigers employed a well-rounded offensive strategy, withJayden Daniels, Malik Nabers, and Brian Thomas shining in the passing game, while the rushing attack amassed a formidable 189 yards that wore down the Arkansas defense.
Arkansas initially found success with their run-pass option (RPO) plays in the first half, thanks to Jefferson’s ability to make plays both through the air and with his legs. However, LSU’s front seven, which had dominated in the previous week against a less mobile quarterback, found it challenging to contain Jefferson’s mobility.
On the flip side, LSU’s offense seemed out of sync for most of the first half. The passing game missed opportunities, protection was inconsistent, and the running backs had limited carries. Nevertheless, despite a lackluster first half, LSU trailed by only 13-10 at halftime, thanks in part to a strong finish. Jayden Daniels connected with Brian Thomas on consecutive plays of 26 and 49 yards for a touchdown, providing a crucial momentum boost heading into the break.
The Tigers capitalized on this momentum in the third quarter, with their offense firing on all cylinders. Brian Thomas continued to shine, finishing the game with five catches for 133 yards and two touchdowns. Daniels completed the game with 320 passing yards and four touchdowns, while Logan Diggs added 97 rushing yards. The combination of deep passes to Thomas and a resurgent running game led to five consecutive scoring possessions, propelling LSU to a 24-16 lead.
Despite LSU’s offensive surge, Arkansas refused to go quietly. KJ Jefferson‘s dual-threat ability allowed him to extend plays and sustain drives, including a 59-yard touchdown on a broken play that tied the game at 24 in the fourth quarter. LSU’s defense, though often bending, had managed to hold its ground throughout the game. However, the prolific performance by Jefferson kept the Razorbacks in the contest.
In the final quarter, LSU regained the lead with another strong ground attack and a beautifully executed touchdown pass from Daniels to Malik Nabers. The connection between Nabers and Daniels proved pivotal, resulting in two touchdowns. Nevertheless, Jefferson orchestrated one final touchdown drive for Arkansas, capped off by Luke Hasz‘s 100-yard, two-touchdown performance, ultimately tying the game once more.
In a thrilling finish, LSU had the last possession and ensured that Arkansas did not have an opportunity to answer back. This victory propelled LSU to a 2-0 record in conference play and marked another closely contested matchup between these two teams, with LSU prevailing by just three points.
