TUSCALOOSA, Ala. — Hoping to snap a six-game losing streak, the LSU Tigers, a 21-point underdog, held No. 1 Alabama to 14 points in the first half and just 166 total yards.
LSU’s 3-4 defense scheme limited Alabama’s run game early, but quarterback Jalen Hurts found a way around it.
Hurts connected with tight end Irv Smith Jr. for a 4-yard touchdown pass with 6:08 minutes left in the first quarter.
Hurts connected five passes on 11 attempts in the first half with 104 yards.
Etling struggled at times in the pocket under Alabama’s pressure
Senior quarterback Danny Etling was picked off by Alabama safety Ronnie Harrison as the first quarter came to an end. The Tide took advantage of the mistake and running back Bo Scarbrough found the end zone to give Alabama a 14-0 lead.
LSU had three big-time third down conversion in the second to get deep into Alabama territory. The drive included two receptions from Chark of 21 and 23 yards.
Freshman kicker Connor Culp made a 21-yard field goal attempt to cut Alabama’s lead 14-3.
Etling finished the half throwing 8-for-16 with 103 yards. The interception in the first quarter was only Etling’s second of the season.
The Tigers outgained the Tide by 10 yards depsite trailing by nine points. LSU will receive the ball at the start of the second half.
Corey Thompson (23) makes a tackle during LSU's game against Alabama on Saturday, Nov. 4, 2017, at the Bryant-Denny Stadium.
