Travis Etienne became Clemson’s all-time leading rusher (Tigernet)
Some key notes from LSU’s win over Clemson
Clemson defensive coordinator Brent Venables devised a three-man front with one linebacker and seven men back. For a while, it worked. LSU punted on four of its first five possessions. But LSU and quarterback Joe Burrow eventually figured things out and put up a 269 yard, 21 point second quarter to turn the game their way. That was more yardage than Clemson allowed in eight complete games this season.
The Tigers played without starting DT Nyles Pinckney who was not ready to go due to an ankle injury. Tyler Davis and Jordan Williams played most of the snaps at defensive tackle.
Clemson scored on its first possession of the second half, including a two point conversion, to close to within 28-25. But after an exchange of punt, LSU drove into the red zone. Jamie Skalski was called for targeting and was ejected, and LSU scored on the next play to go back up 10.
Clemson could not generate offense after its lone second half touchdown. The Tigers’ last five possessions ended with punts and a fumble by Trevor Lawrence.
LSU QB Joe Burrow as sensational passing for 463 yards and 5 touchdowns and rushing for 58 yards and a score. He threw 60 touchdown passes this season. During one stretch, he completed 12-13 attempts. And he broke off some big runs up the middle against Clemson’s defense designed to stop the passing game.
Lawrence passed for 234 yards but no touchdowns, and completed just 4 of his last 13. He suffered his first loss as a Clemson quarterback, and saw his streak of games with a touchdown pass end at 24.
Travis Etienne rushed for 78 yards and 1 touchdown for Clemson and became the Tigers’ all-time leading rusher.
LSU averaged 9.1 yards per play on first down. Of the Tigers 628 total yards, 372 came on first down plays. And they averaged 7.8 yards per snap.
