Russell's late drive lifts Alabama past LSU in a defensive slugfest

Alabama defeated LSU 31-13 at Tiger Stadium in Baton Rouge on Saturday, improving its record to 7-2 for the 2026 season. The game featured a defensive struggle that lasted until the fourth quarter, when the Crimson Tide offense finally broke the tie.

The first 15 minutes of play produced only three total possessions. Both teams connected on field goals to make the score 3-3 after the first quarter. Alabama took the lead in the second quarter after an 11-play, 62-yard drive concluded with a one-yard run by Ryan Coleman-Williams. The Tigers failed to convert on their next possession, and the Alabama defense forced a turnover on downs.

LSU quarterback Sam Leavitt threw an interception in Alabama territory with 28 seconds remaining in the first half. The Crimson Tide ran out the clock to enter the break with a 10-3 advantage. The third quarter began with a field goal for LSU, which forced an Alabama punt. LSU then drove 90 yards over 11 plays, ending with a touchdown run by Dilin Jones. That score gave the Tigers a 13-10 lead.

Alabama responded quickly to regain control. Just over two minutes later, quarterback Keelon Russell led a five-play, 75-yard drive. He completed a seven-yard touchdown pass to tight end Josh Ford, giving the Tide a 17-13 lead at the end of the third quarter.

The fourth quarter belonged to Alabama. After exchanging punts, the Crimson Tide extended their lead. Coleman-Williams returned a punt 32 yards to set up the field position for a quick strike. Russell threw a 25-yard touchdown pass to Cederian Morgan, increasing the margin to 24-13. Following another LSU turnover on downs, Russell connected with Kaleb Edwards on a four-yard touchdown pass. That score made Edwards the third receiver to catch a touchdown in the contest and pushed the lead to 31-13.

LSU failed to score again in the final minutes. Alabama will travel to Nashville on November 14 to play Vanderbilt. Kickoff is scheduled for 11:45 a.m.