LSU quarterback Zach Mettenberger was supposed to be the one running for his life and fumbling Saturday at Florida.

Instead, it’s been Florida quarterback Jeff Driskel who’s felt the pressure, taking five sacks from a ferocious LSU rush as the Tigers lead the Gators, 6-0, at halftime.

It’s been a classic defensive slugfest through 30 minutes, reminiscent of LSU’s last top-10 roadtrip, a 9-6 win at No. 2 Alabama last November.

This one has been decidedly more sloppy, with the teams combining for three turnovers and six penalties, but field goals have still ruled the day.

In that area, it’s LSU — 2, Florida — 0.

But the Tigers have largely wasted a smothering defensive effort so far. Florida has gained only 47 yards on 37 plays.

Linebacker Kevin Minter has been the star, garnering eight solo tackles — three for a loss — two sacks and a forced fumble.

LSU opened the game with an impressive 10-play, 64-yard scoring drive, taking a 3-0 lead on Drew Alleman’s 31-yard field goal.

Then the defense set in.

LSU and Florida combined for only seven more first downs in the half and just 128 total yards combined.

Mettenberger made the game’s first big mistake, tossing an interception in LSU territory.

But Minter sacked Driskel twice on a row to force another punt. Florida gained positive yards on three of its seven drives in the first half.

With the Gators driving midway through the second quarter, Minter knocked the ball out of Florida wide receiver Andre Debose’s clutches, nullifying the home team’s best scoring chance.

One possession later, Driskel held onto the ball too long against an interior rush, and LSU defensive tackle Bennie Logan knocked the ball loose.

LSU recovered at the Florida 7-yard line, but could only add a 25-yard Drew Alleman field goal shortly before halftime.

Follow @TDR_Sports, @CassaraTDR and @AbshireTDR on Twitter for second-half and postgame coverage.