Vanderbilt Tops LSU 31-24, Achieves Best Start in 75 Years

In a thrilling matchup, the No. 17 Vanderbilt Commodores defeated the 10th-ranked LSU Tigers 31-24 on October 21, 2023. This victory marks Vanderbilt’s best start to a season in 75 years, improving their record to 6-1 for the first time since 1950. The Commodores’ win against LSU is significant as it ends a 10-game losing streak against the Tigers, a feat not achieved since 1990.

Diego Pavia was instrumental in the win, throwing for 160 yards and a touchdown while also rushing for 86 yards and two additional touchdowns. Vanderbilt’s offense, which ranks seventh nationally with an average of 43.2 points per game, showcased its strength against an LSU defense that had previously allowed only 11.8 points on average.

Vanderbilt coach Clark Lea expressed pride in the team’s performance, noting, “Ultimately we have a lot of season left, and we’re going to celebrate this win. But this game won’t define our season.” The Commodores are now bowl eligible, a significant achievement for a program that has historically set this as a primary goal.

Despite the loss, LSU, now 5-2 overall and 2-2 in the Southeastern Conference, had standout performances, particularly from quarterback Garrett Nussmeier, who passed for 225 yards and two touchdowns. One of his highlights included a 62-yard touchdown pass to Zavion Thomas. However, the Tigers struggled to capitalize on scoring opportunities, managing only field goals from kicker Damian Ramos, who converted kicks of 48, 42, and 23 yards but missed a crucial 52-yarder.

The game was closely contested, yet Vanderbilt’s efficiency on offense proved decisive. The Commodores only punted twice, both in the fourth quarter, and their defense effectively contained LSU’s attempts to regain momentum. Notably, after the Commodores’ first punt, Zaylin Wood’s sack on Nussmeier highlighted Vanderbilt’s defensive prowess.

As the final seconds of the game ticked away, Vanderbilt celebrated with loud music, including the classic “Callin’ Baton Rouge,” as fans reveled in the historic victory. This win not only solidifies Vanderbilt’s position in the AP Top 25 for a sixth consecutive week but also sets the stage for an exciting remainder of the season.

Looking ahead, LSU will host No. 4 Texas A&M on October 25, while Vanderbilt will face No. 16 Missouri on the same day. As both teams prepare for the upcoming challenges, the stakes are high, and the excitement in college football continues to build.