LSU Stages Comeback to Defeat Clemson 17-10 in Season Opener

In a thrilling season opener, the Louisiana State University (LSU) Tigers overcame a halftime deficit to secure a 17-10 victory against the Clemson Tigers on September 2, 2023, in Clemson, South Carolina. Quarterback Garrett Nussmeier played a pivotal role, throwing an 8-yard touchdown pass to Trey’Dez Green in the fourth quarter, marking LSU’s first season-opening win since 2019.

Nussmeier, who surpassed 4,000 passing yards in his debut season as a starter in 2024, demonstrated significant improvement as the game progressed. He accumulated 230 yards in total, with 134 yards coming in the second half, leading two crucial touchdown drives. Running back Caden Durham contributed to the win with 74 rushing yards and a touchdown.

The game began with a defensive showcase, as both teams struggled to score. Clemson took an early lead, with Adam Randall scoring a touchdown on a fourth-down play. By halftime, Clemson was ahead 10-3, thanks in part to their defense forcing two fumbles by LSU wide receivers. Dabo Swinney, Clemson’s head coach, executed a successful gamble that allowed Randall to score, but the team’s momentum shifted after the third quarter.

The turning point came when Clemson’s kicker Nolan Hauser missed a critical 48-yard field goal. This miss opened the door for Nussmeier, who quickly capitalized with passing completions of 36 and 14 yards to Aaron Anderson. Although LSU initially missed a field goal attempt, Nussmeier connected with Green soon after, tying the game.

Clemson’s defense faced constant pressure throughout the match, limiting first-team preseason All-American quarterback Cade Klubnik to 19-of-38 passing for 230 yards, alongside an interception. With less than five minutes remaining, Clemson had a chance to equalize, but the defense denied them any first downs, ultimately forcing a turnover on downs.

The injury to star wide receiver Antonio Williams in the first quarter hampered Clemson’s offense significantly. Swinney noted earlier this offseason that the wide receiver position is one of the team’s strengths, with several capable players ready to step up. Nonetheless, the depth of that position will be tested in the coming weeks.

As both teams regroup for their next matches, LSU will face Louisiana Tech at home, while Clemson will host Troy. The matchup on Saturday not only set the tone for the season ahead but also highlighted the resilience and determination of both squads.