LSU couldn’t recreate the magic from last season’s upset over Alabama, falling victim to the defensive issues that have plagued the team all year in a 42-28 shootout loss on the road in Tuscaloosa that all but clinched an SEC West title for the Tide.
LSU struck first and looked game offensively in this one. It fell behind in the first quarter but ultimately scored right before the half to tie the game at 21 entering the locker room.
The Tigers took the lead with a scoring drive coming out of the half to take a 28-21 lead, but that was all they managed the rest of the way as Alabama ended the game on a 21-0 run.
It was a solid game for [autotag]Jayden Daniels[/autotag], who completed 15 of 24 passes for 219 yards and two touchdowns while adding 163 yards and a touchdown on the ground. A lot of that passing production went to [autotag]Malik Nabers[/autotag]f, who had 171 yards and a touchdown on 10 catches.
Daniels did, however, throw an interception while trailing by seven that allowed the Tide to pull away for good.
He ultimately left the game after taking a hard hit that sent him to concussion protocol. Garrett Nussmeier finished the game but couldn’t add any more points.
Once again, however, the defense was the real issue. Alabama totaled 507 yards with quarterback Jalen Milroe throwing for 219 and rushing for 155 while totaling four touchdowns, all of which came on the ground. All in all, the Crimson Tide rushed for 288 yards behind impressive contributions from Jase McClellan and Roydell Williams, as well.
LSU couldn’t get Alabama, which was 11 of 14 on third down attempts, off the field.
It was not the result LSU (6-3, 4-2 SEC) was looking for in a pivotal division matchup as this team will now finish with at least three losses in the regular season once again. The Tigers will look to bounce back next weekend as they return home to host Florida.
Contact/Follow us @LSUTigersWire on Twitter, and like our page on Facebook to follow ongoing coverage of Louisiana State news, notes, and opinions.
Follow Tyler to continue the conversation on Twitter: @TylerNettuno