After five straight losses in season openers, No. 9 LSU beat No. 4 Clemson 17-10 to start 2025 strong.
LSU’s last opening win came in 2019 with Joe Burrow leading the team to a national championship.
Expected to be a shootout, LSU’s defense shut out Clemson in the second half, allowing just 31 rushing yards.
Nussmeier hit Trey’Dez Green for the go-ahead TD LSU defense stopped Clemson twice in crunch time
Linebacker Harold Perkins Jr. returned from injury with 1 sack, 1½ TFLs, and clutch pressures.
LSU had two first-half fumbles, but controlled the second half with 354 total yards and strong clock management.
The QB went 28/38, 230 yards, 1 TD, showing poise in key moments.
Coach Brian Kelly says “It wasn’t pretty, but it’s a huge momentum booster for our program.
LSU hosts Louisiana Tech, No. 15 Florida, and Southeast Louisiana before hitting the road again.