Alabama Defeats LSU 20–9 in Defensive Showcase, Extends SEC Win Streak

November 8, 2025 - TUSCALOOSA, AL. - In a rivalry game defined by grit and defensive dominance, No. 4 Alabama defeated LSU 20–9 on Saturday night at Bryant-Denny Stadium, extending its win streak to eight games and solidifying its place atop the SEC standings. The Crimson Tide (8–1, 6–0 SEC) held the Tigers out of the end zone for the first time in over a decade, delivering their most complete defensive performance of the season.

Crimson Tide Defense Shines

Alabama's defense was relentless, limiting LSU to just 232 total yards, 13 first downs, and zero touchdowns. The Tigers struggled to find rhythm under interim head coach Frank Wilson, who stepped in after Brian Kelly's dismissal in October. Quarterbacks Garrett Nussmeier and Michael Van Buren combined for only 173 passing yards, and LSU converted just four red-zone trips into nine points.

"We missed a few opportunities with the ball on the ground or in the air," said Alabama head coach Kalen DeBoer. "But I like the way the defense is playing, and they'll go back to work tomorrow."

Linebacker Yhonzae Pierre was a standout, forcing a critical fourth-quarter fumble that helped seal the win. Alabama's defense also recorded multiple sacks and held LSU to 56 rushing yards, frustrating the Tigers' offensive line throughout the night.

Ty Simpson Leads the Offense

Quarterback Ty Simpson continued his Heisman campaign with a steady performance, completing 21 of 35 passes for 277 yards and one touchdown. He connected with freshman standout Ryan Williams for a 13-yard score late in the second quarter, giving Alabama a 17–6 halftime lead.

Simpson's deep ball accuracy was inconsistent, and he lost a fumble early in the fourth quarter, but his poise and ability to extend plays kept Alabama ahead. "There's just some things we can do better to separate ourselves in the third quarter," DeBoer said. "We need to get better at putting teams away."

Alabama's run game was subdued, totaling just 56 yards, but explosive passing plays-including four completions of 30+ yards-kept LSU's defense on its heels.

LSU's Struggles Continue

LSU (5–4, 2–4 SEC) entered the game with hopes of rebounding under new leadership, but penalties, missed assignments, and conservative play-calling hampered their chances. The Tigers were flagged 10 times and failed to capitalize on several promising drives.

"We just thought it was an opportunity to change up and throw them off," said Coach Frank Wilson, explaining the mid-game quarterback switch. LSU has now lost three straight to Alabama and hasn't won in Tuscaloosa since 2019.

SEC and Playoff Implications

With the win, Alabama remains undefeated in SEC play and improves to No. 4 in the College Football Playoff rankings. The Tide now turn their attention to a high-stakes matchup against No. 10 Oklahoma on November 15, with playoff hopes and conference supremacy on the line.

Alabama also extended its home win streak to 17 games, the longest active streak in the FBS.

Final Thoughts

Though not a high-scoring affair, Alabama's victory over LSU showcased the team's defensive depth, quarterback leadership, and ability to grind out wins in tough environments. As the postseason approaches, Coach DeBoer's squad looks increasingly like a contender built for championship football.