COLLEGE STATION, Texas -- LSU ran, ran and ran some more and survived some missed field goals to hang on to a narrow 23-17 Thanksgiving night win over Texas A&M on Saturday at Kyle Field. There were some highlight-worthy plays, a lot of silliness, and some drama at the end. A look at what transpired:
How the game was won: LSU ran the ball at will to the tune of 384 yards and had two players who passed the century mark (Leonard Fournette and quarterback Anthony Jennings). Texas A&M might be known for its offense but it was the Tigers who were dominant in that category, outgaining the Aggies 491-228. The Tigers also survived a late A&M rally when defensive back Jalen Collins intercepted a deep pass from Kyle Allen after LSU defensive lineman Sione Teuhema appeared to be offside. There was no call, however, and the Tigers ran the clock out to secure the victory.
Game ball goes to: Fournette. The true freshman finished with a season-high 146 yards and a touchdown on 19 carries. He averaged 7.7 yards per carry, broke his fair share of tackles and was consistent in falling forward for extra yardage. He wasn’t the only one compiling big yardage against the Texas A&M defense, but he was the best of the bunch Thursday night.
What it means: The Tigers wrap up their regular season on a positive note, ending their two-game losing streak. They never have lost three games in a row under Les Miles and keep that record intact. More importantly, the Tigers got the kind of offensive performance they needed after getting shut out at Arkansas 17-0 on Nov. 15. Meanwhile, the Aggies finish the regular season with two consecutive losses complete with brutal defensive performances.
Best play: No doubt it was Fournette’s 22-yard touchdown run with 4:33 to go in the second quarter. The true freshman showed off his sheer power and strength by running right through Texas A&M safety Howard Matthews on his way to the end zone. I repeat, Fournette is a true freshman.
What's next: The Tigers close out the regular season at 8-4 (4-4 in the SEC) while the Aggies fall to 7-5 (3-5). Both teams now await word on their bowl destinations.