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Leavitt throws for 4 TDs as No. 22 LSU routs No. 16 Mississippi State 31-0

LSU’s Sam Leavitt delivered a masterclass in accuracy and precision, throwing for 289 yards and four touchdowns while avoiding any turnovers for the first time this season. The Tigers capitalized on Mississippi State’s defensive struggles, building a commanding 24-point lead in the first half en route to a 31-0 shutout victory.

The Bulldogs, already reeling from a pair of consecutive losses by more than 30 points, struggled offensively with second-year quarterback Parker Puckett completing just 16 of 26 passes for 121 yards. Despite driving the Bulldogs into LSU territory five times, Mississippi State failed to convert on fourth-down attempts, including a critical play from the Tigers’ 6-yard line, sealing their fate in the loss.

LSU’s offensive line and receivers stepped up in the absence of key players for Mississippi State, including starting quarterback Kamario Taylor and running back Fluff Bothwell. Jackson Harris led the Tigers’ receiving corps with six catches for 85 yards and two touchdowns before exiting with a lower left leg injury in the third quarter.

LSU’s ground game also contributed, with running back Dilin Jones gaining 84 yards on 18 carries, including a standout 21-yard run where his helmet came off. The victory marked LSU’s first SEC shutout since a 45-0 win over Mississippi State in 2007, a game that was part of their national championship run.

Coach Lane Kiffin emphasized the team’s depth, noting that LSU had more available talent on the bench than many opponents, while also praising Leavitt’s improvement, who connected with nine different receivers and minimized scrambles.

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