The first half at Death Valley didn’t bring an offensive explosion, but it certainly delivered plenty of suspense. LSU heads into halftime with a 10-7 lead over South Carolina after a tense, grind-it-out opening half that mixed flashes of promise with moments of frustration for the Gamecocks.
South Carolina’s defense set the tone early, forcing an LSU fumble deep in Tiger territory. That turnover opened the door for a momentum-shifting drive — just three plays and 80 yards, capped by an electrifying 72-yard touchdown sprint from Matt Fuller. The sophomore back exploded through a gap and outran the secondary to the end zone, a play that silenced the home crowd and gave the Gamecocks an early jolt.
Fuller, who carried the offense late in the win over Kentucky, continues to strengthen his case for the No. 1 running back spot. His big run was a rare offensive highlight, though, as the Gamecocks struggled to sustain drives afterward. Costly penalties and stalled possessions allowed LSU to regain control of the tempo.
The Tigers struck back quickly. Quarterback Garrett Nussmeier engineered a sharp six-play, 72-yard drive, finishing it with a six-yard touchdown toss to tight end Trey’Dez Green early in the second quarter. That score gave LSU the narrow halftime edge.
By the Numbers:
- Score: LSU 10, South Carolina 7
- Key Play: 72-yard TD run by Matt Fuller
- Turnovers: 1 (Smith interception for South Carolina)
- LSU TD Drive: 6 plays, 72 yards
- Time of Possession: LSU 17:30 | South Carolina 12:30
Despite the miscues, South Carolina remains within striking distance. The defense is creating opportunities, and the offense has flashed its potential — they just haven’t put it all together. As the second half looms, one thing is clear: the Gamecocks are very much alive in Death Valley.
“This game is still winnable, and that’s what makes it so frustrating,” one fan posted online. “The defense is battling — now it’s time for the offense to finish drives. Let’s go, Gamecocks!”
