No. 9 LSU Defeats No. 4 Clemson 17-10 in Season Opener

No. 9 LSU triumphed over fourth-ranked Clemson 17-10 in their 2025 season opener, marking LSU's first season-opening win since 2019. LSU quarterback Garrett Nussmeier, who surpassed 4,000 yards passing in 2024, threw a decisive 8-yard touchdown pass to Trey’Dez Green in the fourth quarter, rallying the Tigers from a 10-3 halftime deficit. LSU's defense, bolstered by new transfers, limited Clemson’s quarterback Cade Klubnik to 230 yards passing with constant pressure, while Clemson struggled offensively with only 31 rushing yards. Clemson lost star wide receiver Antonio Williams early to injury, which hampered their offensive efforts. Despite Clemson’s defensive efforts, including forcing two fumbles, LSU's balanced attack with Caden Durham’s 74 rushing yards and a touchdown proved pivotal. Clemson’s final drive ended with an incomplete pass on fourth-and-4 from the LSU 15-yard line, sealing LSU's victory.