The Lane Kiffin era at LSU couldn’t have started much better.
The Tigers dominated Clemson 51-10 Saturday night in Baton Rouge, turning one of the most anticipated games of opening weekend into a statement victory. After a lengthy weather delay, Kiffin’s first game on the LSU sideline ended with the Tigers completely overwhelming Clemson on both sides of the football.
LSU Takes Control
Clemson actually struck first with a field goal, but LSU quickly erased that advantage.
The Tigers responded with an offensive explosion and steadily pulled away as the game went on. What initially looked like a competitive matchup quickly turned into a one-sided affair, with LSU finding success running Kiffin’s offense while the defense continued to make life difficult for Clemson.
By the time the game reached its later stages, LSU had turned a close opening into a massive lead.
Leavitt Leads the Way
One of the biggest storylines entering the game was Sam Leavitt’s debut at quarterback.
The Arizona State transfer arrived in Baton Rouge with enormous expectations after being one of the biggest additions to Kiffin’s first LSU roster. Despite throwing an interception early, Leavitt and the LSU offense settled down and eventually took control of the game.
That ability to respond after an early mistake was especially encouraging for a quarterback making his debut in one of college football’s toughest environments.
The Defense Shuts Clemson Down
While the offense stole plenty of attention, LSU’s defense was just as impressive.
Clemson struggled to sustain drives as the Tigers repeatedly forced the Tigers into difficult situations. LSU’s defense also helped turn the game into a blowout by preventing Clemson from answering LSU’s scoring runs.
Holding Clemson to only 10 points in a nationally televised season opener is an impressive way for Blake Baker’s defense to begin the year.
A Massive Opening Statement
There was plenty of attention surrounding LSU before kickoff.
Kiffin’s arrival created enormous expectations, while the controversy surrounding former NFL players Dae’Quan Wright and Zxavian Harris added another layer of drama to the opener. LSU ultimately chose not to put either player on its roster for the Clemson game despite a court ruling that had cleared the way for them to return.
None of that mattered once the game started.
LSU put the controversy aside and delivered a 51-10 demolition of Clemson.
The Lane Kiffin era is officially underway, and after destroying Clemson in his debut, LSU has made one thing clear: the Tigers are coming for the SEC.
