For the first time ever, Tiger fans finally caught a glimpse of junior college transfer Zach Mettenberger, and he didn’t disappoint.
Mettenberger, who led Butler (Kan.) Community College to a 11-1 record and a JUCO National Championship Game appearance last year, played the entire second half. He completed 8-11 passes for 92 yards, including a 19-yard touchdown pass to sophomore receiver Kadron Boone.
LSU coach Les Miles said he was pleased with Mettenberger’s performance.
“He came in, got comfortable, and made some nice throws,” Miles said. “I felt like he handled the offense snaps.”
With a 28-3 halftime lead, Mettenberger got that chance.
Mettenberger was inserted at quarterback to start the second half and completed all four of his pass attempts on the first drive, including three completions to freshman receiver Odell Beckham, Jr. The drive culminated in a 7-yard touchdown run from sophomore running back Michael Ford.
“Some of those plays were run/pass options,” Mettenberger said. “A little dunk for 10 yards here and there really helped and got my confidence up fans.”
“That’s what I dreamed of as a kid,” Mettenberger said. “To finally go out there in front of a big crowd, put together a drive and score on my first drive ever was a lot of be.”
Mettenberger said playing with the starters made a significant difference.
“There’s a reason those guys are first-string,” Mettenberger said.
Miles almost called on Mettenberger in the first quarter after Lee was sacked and tweaked his ankle. The injury was minor enough that Lee could continue.
“Hopefully I showed them if Jarrett ever got hurt, I could still run the offense and we could still be effective,” Mettenberger said.
Junior wide receiver Rueben Randle, who led all Tigers with 121 receiving yards, praised Mettenberger and his performance after the game.
“He did a great job and managed the game real well,” Randle said. “He’s not afraid to let it