Syracuse jumped on top following a 23 yard Smith field goal taking a 3-0 lead. When Syracuse got the ball next, LSU's defense forced a safety, making it 3-2. Syracuse's Clarke returned a blocked punt 28 yards for a touchdown, as Syracuse led 10-2. In the third quarter, LSU quarterback Ezell threw a 57 yard touchdown pass to Doug Moreau tying the game at 10. In the fourth quarter, Moreau kicked the winning 28 yard field goal, as LSU won 13-10. Doug Moreau was named Sugar Bowl MVP.