Sports columnist Scott Rabalais with his three takeaways from LSU’s 29-26 overtime win over Ole Miss Saturday at Tiger Stadium:

1. THE DEFENSE BATTLES BACK

LSU and Ole Miss combined for 104 points and more than 1,300 yards of total offense in the Rebels’ 55-49 victory in Oxford last year. This time there were no fireworks, the only eye candy produced by Tiger Stadium’s new LED lighting and the illuminated wristbands given to fans before the game. This wasn’t quite a defensive battle between Billy Cannon and Johnny Vaught circa 1959, but it was clear that both units were much improved from 2023, with more action and pressure from LSU’s front seven.

2. HILL WALKING

LSU coach Brian Kelly often talks about free football. The Tigers’ defense largely did its part. LSU’s offense often didn’t do enough, especially when it came to running the ball. Nussmeier threw for 312 yards in regulation, and his 14-yard scramble on third-and-13 from LSU’s 12 was the Tigers’ longest sequence in regulation. LSU finished four quarters with just 83 yards rushing, a major honor for Ole Miss’ concrete wall-like defense.

3. THE TAKE SIGN

Someone should take away Kelly’s kickoff privileges. Once again, LSU won the coin toss and Kelly took the opening kickoff. The book says the choice should be postponed until the second half and kick-off, but Kelly often turns the field. His reasoning? The team that scores first usually wins. While true, LSU went three and out and essentially lost possession. This time it didn’t cost LSU anything, Ole Miss punted to start the second half, but it could have been done.