Alabama Grinds Past LSU 20–9 in Defensive Battle

Alabama Grinds Past LSU 20–9 in Defensive Battle

TUSCALOOSA, Ala. — In a physical, defense-first rivalry game under the lights, Alabama held off LSU 20 to 9 on Saturday night, relying on timely plays and a steady passing attack to grind out a win that keeps the Crimson Tide firmly in SEC contention.

Alabama quarterback Ty Simpson managed the game efficiently and delivered when it mattered, including a touchdown pass that helped build an early margin. The Tide never allowed LSU to sustain the kind of offensive rhythm needed for a comeback, and Alabama’s defense created crucial stops and turnovers that tilted the game. 

The scoring was methodical. Alabama got on the board with a field goal and added points on a long scoring drive capped by a touchdown pass before halftime. Kicker Conor Talty drilled a late 44 yard field goal to push the lead to 11 and effectively seal the outcome as time dwindled.

LSU struggled to move the ball consistently. Garrett Nussmeier began the game under center but was rotated out in the second half for Michael Van Buren Jr., as the Tigers searched for a spark that never came. LSU finished the night with just over 230 total yards and left several drives empty in Alabama territory. 

Defensively, Alabama made the big plays. The Tide forced multiple turnovers and converted a key strip sack late that ended LSU’s best threat of a comeback. Those takeaways and fourth down stops were the difference in a game that neither offense could sustain for long stretches. 

The win keeps Alabama on track in conference play and gives the Tide another résumé building victory as the season enters its final stretch. For LSU, the loss raises more questions about offensive consistency and play calling as the Tigers try to regroup amid a turbulent stretch