With the help of timely turnovers and a steady dose of the ground game, LSU prevailed in the Cowboy Classic by a score of 40-27 over the #3 ranked Oregon Ducks.

Aided by a dominant third quarter performance which resulted in 14 points and fumble recoveries by Craig Loston and Eric Reid, LSU won its thirty fourth straight game against a non conference opponent.

“You don’t win a game against a good opponent unless you win the turnover margin,” said Coach Les Miles.

The LSU defense forced 4 turnovers, including Tyrann Mathieu stripping punt returner Kenjon Barner and returning it to the end zone for the Tigers’ first touchdown of the season.

The Tigers dominated on the ground out gaining the Ducks 175 yards to 95.  Spencer Ware got a heavy dose of the carries, gaining 99 yard on 26 rushes and scoring a touchdown.

However, Sophomore Michael Ford also contributed scoring two touchdowns on a career high 96 yards on 14 carries.

On the other side of the ball, Heisman hopeful LaMichael James struggled against the speedy LSU defense only rushing for 54 yards on 18 carries and scoring one touchdown.

LSU constantly pressured Oregon QB Darron Thomas, who completed 31 of his 54 passes for 240 yards along with a touchdown and an interception.

Jarrett Lee improved to 6-4 as the starting quarterback completing 10 of his 22 passes, including a 10 yard touchdown pass to Rueben Randle that gave the Tigers the lead which they never surrendered.

Despite the big victory, Lee was not satisfied with his performance.

“We need to do a better job of (passing) moving forward and we will.  We will get better at that for sure.

The Tigers will kickoff their first of six home games Saturday, Sept. 10 when they take on in-state rival Northwestern State.

Contact Ryan Brumley at [email protected]