In a game that started with uncertainty but ended with dominance, the No. 18 LSU Tigers overcame a tight first half to secure a 44-21 victory over Nicholls. Junior quarterback Garrett Nussmeier led the charge, throwing six touchdown passes, tying him with former Heisman Trophy winner Jayden Daniels for the second-most in LSU history.
Six TDs on the night for Nuss
The third QB in LSU history with 6-plus touchdowns in a game in school history pic.twitter.com/FolZyZVIFi
After a slow start, LSU (1-1) found their rhythm in the third quarter, highlighted by a critical 11-play, 72-yard drive capped by a touchdown pass to Kyren Lacy. The momentum shift was cemented when freshman cornerback P.J. Woodland forced and recovered a fumble on Nicholls’ ensuing possession, setting up another Nussmeier-to-Lacy touchdown. Despite the win, Head Coach Brian Kelly expressed concern over the team’s energy levels, attributing their lackluster performance to a short week following their season opener against USC.
Nussmeier’s performance, which included 302 passing yards, was complemented by Lacy’s three-touchdown night. However, the Tigers’ ground game continued to struggle, managing just 64 rushing yards. Nicholls’ senior running back Collin Guggenheim was a bright spot for the Colonels, rushing for 145 yards and two touchdowns. The game also marked a significant milestone, as LSU celebrated 100 years of football in Tiger Stadium, affectionately known as “Death Valley.” The Tigers now shift their focus to their upcoming SEC opener against South Carolina (2-0).
