Tag: lsu

Clemson vs LSU Postgame Breakdown

By: Griffin Jones

On Saturday August 30th, 2025 the number 8 ranked LSU Tigers traveled to Memorial Stadium to take on the number 4 ranked Clemson Tigers in a highly anticipated matchup. There was an unbelievable amount of hype coming into this game as this was the first time the 2 teams faced off since January 13th, 2019 where LSU topped Clemson 42-25 in the National Championship. While the two teams have played formerly, LSU leading 4-1, this was the first game inside of either team’s stadium which are both labeled as “Death Valley”. The high rankings along with the possible revenge lead fans to call this game the battle to be the “Real Death Valley”. 

Coming into the game the spread was Clemson favored by -4.5 as they returned 81% of their offensive talent and 75% of their defensive talent, this combined with a great offseason and a home field advantage led many to believe this was Clemson’s game to win. LSU however returned 65% of offensive production and 59% of defensive production losing much of their offensive line and receiving core. However, using the transfer portal LSU was able to instantly replace their positions of need with equal or similar talent.

Despite both teams returning diverse numbers of talent, they each came into the season labeled to have a top five skilled rosters in the country. All of this skill along with a Heisman hopeful quarterback on each team excited some to the point where they were saying this would be the “Game of the Year”. 

Entering the game LSU players were greeted by 80,000+ Clemson fans who were starving for a big win. A 7:30 kickoff time only fed into the excitement of the roaring fans. Clemson won the coin toss and decided to defer and the game was under way.

The first play from scrimmage LSU’s star sophomore running back Caden Durham shook off a tackle and ran for a gain of  24 yards leaving them just shy of Clemson territory. The Tigers gained 1 more first down getting to the Clemson 40 but after that stalled, leaving out at a 3 & 11. As this was the biggest play of the game at this point the fans were deafening during a huge third down on the first drive. This caused Quarterback Garrett Nussmeier to call a timeout due to the screams. The rest of the first half was filled with many unsuccessful with LSU’s offense looking superior throughout. Despite this, Clemson’s lead in the turnover battle along with a strong drive in the second quarter helped them head into the half with a 10-3 lead over LSU.

However, this lead would be short lived as LSU’s dominance of time of possession, Clemson’s inability to establish the run game, and an interception thrown in the second half turned things LSU’s way. As they tied the game 10-10 with a Caden Durham touchdown and took the lead with a 1on1 endzone ball to 6 ‘7 receiver Trey’dez Green. Once LSU claimed the lead they never let it go, despite Clemson’s best effort on their final drive they came up just short of forcing overtime. As Klubnik was pressured into a poor throw on 4th down from LSU’s 15 with just under a minute left. 

I believe that these are two playoff teams who have a lot of potential this year if they reach their full ability. Although Clemson lost, I think Troy will help them get some confidence and hopefully bounce back in the future and figure things out in what seems like a strong ACC this year.

Why Clemson lost to LSU

By: Ben McLaurin

To begin, Clemson was favored going into the game, but for some reason Clemson decides to the game. We were not expecting our star receiver to get hurt on the 2nd drive of the game. LSU does not breed star players, they get them in the portal like Mansoor Delane was a locksmith all night for LSU as a Virginia Tech transfer. Antiono Williams fell with a hamstring injury and he was expected to be Cade’s number one target all night. Clemson’s corner Ashton Hampton played a disappointing game with 3 Pass Interferences, but one was a horrendous call around the fifty-yard line which not only led to a first down on 3rd and 11 but led to a touchdown that put them ahead 17-10. Clemson’s 2nd half and run game was pathetic with 31 total rush yards all night with constant costly penalties that led to drive killers for the Tigers and extenders for LSU. Clemson  had a hot start to the 2nd half with a drive until Hauser missed an important kick to extend the lead which fell wide right. The Clemson o-line was experienced and failed to execute unlike LSU’s young o-line that had an effective run game with well over 100 yards.  Tj Parker and Demonta Capehart, two projected first round picks, put up 2 total tackles made by Tj Parker which led to 1st year starters like Ronan Hanfan to step up with 12 tackles followed by Sammyn Brown’s 11. In all, Clemson did play a poor game and the ref’s were no help for Clemson. Even without the bad calls, Clemson just played a bad game and were not prepared especially on Garrett Riley’s part with a sorry game plan. Especially in the beginning, instead of getting Cade easy completions he tried to have him read deep concepts against a star studded secondary.

Was 2019 LSU the greatest College Football Team ever?

By: Carson Wilsey

For many reasons, the 2019 LSU football team has been recognized as one of the greatest in college football history. The Tigers won a national championship versus Clemson with an outstanding 15-0 record under head coach Ed Orgeron’s coaching. This group not only changed the way collegiate football is played, but they also showed amazing talent and teamwork.

LSU’s exceptional offensive performance, led by Heisman Trophy winner Joe Burrow, was a major contributing factor to their excellence. With a record-breaking season people witnessed him throw for over 5,600 yards and 60 touchdowns, Burrow showcased off his ability to read defenses and deliver insane throws. Joe Brady, the offensive coordinator, created an offensive scheme that prioritized a fast-paced, dynamic approach that combined explosive passing plays with a powerful rushing game. LSU’s attack was difficult to stop because of its variety; they outscored their opponents every game and regularly put up incredible numbers.

LSU’s defense, which was essential in their championship run, was just as excellent. Throughout the season, the defense, led by players such as Derek Stingley Jr. and Grant Delpit, demonstrated both talent and grit. They frequently forced turnovers and made crucial stops, which gave the offense strong field position. This amazing balance between defense and offense was essential for LSU to maintain control of its games and adjust to the diverse challenges that different opponents presented.

Lastly, LSU’s outstanding schedule serves as more evidence of their dominance. The Tigers demonstrated their ability to execute under pressure by defeating several highly regarded teams, including Florida and Alabama. A strong defense, a difficult schedule, and historically high offensive output all work together to solidify the 2019 LSU football team’s legacy. Their accomplishments not only represented the height of college football, but they also established a standard that other teams would have to meet, motivating a new generation of players and supporters.

The greatest CFB Team Ever

By: Sam Tristan

The 2019 LSU college football team stands out as one of the greatest of all time for several compelling reasons. Led by head coach Ed Orgeron and quarterback Joe Burrow, the Tigers achieved a remarkable 15-0 record, capping off their extraordinary season with a victory in the College Football Playoff National Championship.

One defining aspect of the 2019 LSU team was its prolific offense. Under the guidance of Heisman Trophy winner Joe Burrow, the Tigers set numerous records, showcasing an explosive and dynamic style of play. Burrow himself threw for an astonishing 60 touchdown passes during the season, establishing a new single-season record. The team’s offense averaged an impressive 48.4 points per game, leaving opponents struggling to contain their high-powered attacks.

Moreover, the 2019 LSU team navigated a challenging schedule, defeating seven top-10 ranked opponents throughout the season, including decisive wins against powerhouse teams like Alabama and Clemson. The National Championship game against Clemson showcased the team’s resilience, as they overcame an early deficit to secure a convincing 42-25 victory.

The team’s success extended beyond individual performances to a cohesive and determined unit that demonstrated exceptional teamwork and camaraderie. The combination of an explosive offense, a tenacious defense, and a resilient mindset makes the 2019 LSU Tigers a formidable candidate for the title of the greatest college football team of all time. Their dominant and historic season left an indelible mark on the sport, solidifying their place in the annals of college football history.