Five things stood out in LSU football's loss to Houston

LSU football had one more game on the 2025 schedule before handing the reins to Lane Kiffin. The Tigers took a trip to Texas to take on the Houston Cougars in the Texas Bowl. After taking a 14-0 lead, Houston came roaring back and eventually was able to come back and take the lead with only four seconds left in the second quarter. LSU spent the rest of the game trying to play catch-up, but Houston eventually pulled away and won the game 38-35.

It was the first time since 2008 that LSU lost a game after leading by 14 points or more, nearly 20 years.

Now, LSU prepares for change as Kiffin takes over the program. This roster will look a lot different next year and its already starting to take shape with several players planning to hit the portal. But before we move on to transfer portal season, here are five elements that stood out in LSU's loss vs. Houston.

Trey'Dez Green

Trey'Dez Green has been a bright spot on a rough-looking offense this season. He has emerged as an incredible target in the red zone as he uses his 6'7 frame to box out defenders and catch touchdown passes. He had another great game tonight with four receptions for 80 yards and two touchdowns.

Kyle Parker

Kyle Parker had a great night, leading the Tigers' receiving core with seven catches for 68 yards and a touchdown. It seemed as if Michael Van Buren needed to find a receiver open; Parker was his go-to guy. This was Parker's best game since making five catches for 75 yards and a touchdown against South Carolina.

Davhon Keys

Davhon Keys was the leading tackler for the Tigers on defense as he finished with 12 total tackles. This was his highest tackle total since recording 10 tackles against Western Kentucky on November 22nd. With the Weeks brothers out, a lot was put on Keys' plate. He handled it well.

Tamarcus Cooley

Tamarcus Cooley had his best game as a Tiger this season. He finished the game with a season-high 10 tackles, with seven of them being solo. It was his highest tackle total since he had nine tackles against Florida on September 13th.

Michael Van Buren Jr.

Michael Van Buren wasn't perfect, but he was able to put points on the board. He finished the game 16-for-26 for 267 yards and a season-high three touchdowns. He played his best game in an LSU uniform, but unfortunately, it was not enough to take down Houston.

Penalties

LSU did not do itself any favors when it came to penalties. The Tigers amassed 9 penalties for 95 yards, with seven of those penalties happening on defense. Two facemasks, two pass interferences, an offsides, a horse collar, and an unsportsmanlike conduct penalty helped Houston keep marching down the field and helped them keep scoring.

This article originally appeared on LSU Wire: Five things stood out in LSU football's loss to Houston