The Oklahoma Sooners’ season came to a disappointing end on Saturday, as they were defeated 37-17 by the LSU Tigers in the 2024 season finale. The game, which had significant implications for both teams, was a battle of two high-powered offenses, but LSU’s defense and overall execution proved to be too much for the Sooners.
Played in front of a raucous crowd at Tiger Stadium in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, this contest had fans on the edge of their seats from the opening whistle. With both teams entering the game with playoff aspirations, the stakes were high. Unfortunately for Oklahoma, they couldn’t capitalize on key moments, ultimately allowing LSU to control the tempo and pace throughout much of the contest.
LSU’s Dominant Defense
The story of the game was LSU’s relentless defensive effort, which stifled Oklahoma’s high-flying offense at nearly every turn. Sooners quarterback Dillon Gabriel, who had been a standout for Oklahoma throughout the season, struggled against LSU’s defensive line and secondary. Gabriel was forced to make hurried throws and struggled with pressure, leading to multiple sacks and an interception in the second half.
LSU’s defense, led by linebacker Harold Perkins Jr. and cornerback Denver Harris, was a nightmare for Oklahoma’s offense. Perkins was particularly disruptive, recording two sacks and forcing Gabriel into a series of uncomfortable throws. Harris also played a key role in limiting Oklahoma’s passing game, blanketing wide receivers and breaking up passes that could have extended drives.
Oklahoma’s offensive line, which had been one of their strengths all season, was unable to protect Gabriel against the Tigers’ relentless pass rush. LSU was able to get to the quarterback early and often, resulting in a total of four sacks and numerous pressures that threw off Oklahoma’s rhythm.
Despite having the ball in scoring range several times throughout the game, the Sooners were often forced into field goal attempts or turnovers due to the smothering LSU defense. Gabriel was only able to throw for 215 yards, and while he connected with Marvin Mims on a few deep shots, the overall offensive execution was lacking.
LSU’s Offense Clicks
On the flip side, LSU’s offense looked sharp, especially in the first half. Quarterback Jayden Daniels, who had been one of the most efficient quarterbacks in college football this season, showcased his dual-threat ability, passing for over 270 yards and rushing for another 60 yards. Daniels’ poise in the pocket and ability to extend plays with his legs kept the Sooners’ defense on its heels all afternoon.
Daniels was particularly effective in spreading the ball around to a variety of receivers, with Malik Nabers and Kyren Lacy both making key contributions. Nabers finished the game with 115 receiving yards and a touchdown, while Lacy added another 75 yards and a critical touchdown late in the third quarter that put the game out of reach for Oklahoma.
LSU’s running game also provided a balanced attack. Freshman running back Logan Diggs showed flashes of brilliance, rushing for 85 yards and two touchdowns. Diggs found the end zone in both the first and second halves, including a powerful 5-yard touchdown run in the third quarter that extended LSU’s lead to 27-10. The Tigers’ offensive line was dominant, creating large holes for Diggs and Daniels to exploit throughout the game.
Oklahoma’s defense, despite some strong individual performances, simply could not stop the LSU offensive juggernaut. Led by linebacker Danny Stutsman, who recorded 12 tackles and a sack, the Sooners were able to limit LSU’s big plays at times but could not get off the field on crucial third downs. The Tigers converted on 8 of 12 third-down attempts, showcasing their ability to sustain drives and control the tempo of the game.
A Disappointing Second Half for Oklahoma
After a competitive first half, in which Oklahoma trailed by only 17-10 at halftime, the second half saw the Sooners struggle to keep pace. The offense was stymied by LSU’s defense, and key mistakes by Oklahoma allowed LSU to seize control. Early in the third quarter, Gabriel was intercepted by LSU safety Greg Brooks, which led to a quick touchdown drive by the Tigers to push the lead to 24-10.
Oklahoma’s offense, which had shown signs of life early in the game, could not answer back. The Sooners’ running game, which had been inconsistent throughout the season, was nonexistent in Baton Rouge. Eric Gray and Jovantae Barnes were held to just 47 yards on the ground, further limiting Oklahoma’s offensive options and making them one-dimensional.
Despite a late touchdown pass from Gabriel to Mims that cut the lead to 27-17, the Sooners were unable to mount a sustained comeback. LSU’s offense responded with a methodical 75-yard drive capped off by another Diggs touchdown, sealing the 37-17 victory.
Key Moments in the Game
Several key moments stood out throughout the contest. The interception by Gabriel in the third quarter was one of the pivotal plays, as it shifted momentum in favor of LSU. Additionally, Oklahoma’s inability to convert on third downs in the second half left their defense on the field for extended periods, wearing them down and allowing LSU to build a commanding lead.
LSU’s ability to capitalize on Oklahoma’s mistakes, including a missed field goal and an uncharacteristic drop by Oklahoma wide receiver Drake Stoops on a key third-down conversion, was crucial. The Sooners were simply unable to execute in critical moments, something that had been a hallmark of their season up until this point.
Looking Ahead for Both Teams
The loss effectively ends Oklahoma’s playoff hopes, and they will now turn their attention to bowl season. Head coach Brent Venables will need to regroup his team and focus on improving the offensive line and quarterback play, as well as finding ways to get the defense to make more impactful stops in key moments.
For LSU, the win solidifies their place in the College Football Playoff discussion. Coach Brian Kelly’s Tigers have proven themselves to be a formidable team, with both a potent offense and a defense that can shut down even the most explosive units. The victory also provides LSU with momentum as they head into the postseason, where they’ll look to make a deep run and challenge for a national title.
Conclusion
Oklahoma’s loss to LSU in the season finale was a tough way to end an up-and-down season. The Sooners fought hard but ultimately couldn’t overcome the challenges posed by LSU’s superior defense and balanced offensive attack. As they reflect on their performance, Oklahoma will have to focus on building for the future, while LSU looks to carry the momentum from this dominant victory into the College Football Playoff.
