After securing his first ever season opener win, LSU quarterback Garrett Nussmeier spoke with the media following Saturday’s upset against No. 4 Clemson.

Nussmeier began by giving credit to Blake Baker’s defense. The “Bayou Bandits” were able to hold Cade Klubnik’s offense to just 31 rushing yards and 261 total net yards.

“I’m so proud of the defense, they stepped up big for us. That win is a big kudos to them,” Nussmeier said.

Nussmeier admitted that the offense had a hard time finding their rhythm in the first quarter, and that they were only hurting themselves by making mistakes

“The first quarter wasn’t good enough.”

“We didn’t feel like they were stopping us, we felt like we were stopping ourselves. We were shooting ourselves in the football with things like penalties and turnovers,” Nussmeier said.

One of the biggest concerns for LSU fans coming into the opener was the run game, which has been inconsistent in years past. However, on Saturday Caden Durham and the running back room looked as solid as ever, helping to create chaos on the field.

“I thought our run game was rolling all night,” Nussmeier said.

“That also speaks to that offensive line. They did a great job stepping up tonight,” Nussmeier said of his pocket protectors.

Nussmeier had an impressive night, throwing for 230 yards and he was 28/38. Nuss will continue to lead the team as they return to Death Valley in preparation for week two against Louisiana Tech.