In a stunning turn of events, LSU pitcher Nate Ackenhausen, after receiving a text from coach Jay Johnson just hours before the game, delivered a stellar performance in his first start for the Tigers, leading them to a crucial 5-0 shutout victory over Tennessee in the College World Series.

Ackenhausen pitched six impressive innings, combining with Riley Cooper for LSU's nation-leading 11th shutout of the season. This win marks the fourth time LSU has defeated their SEC rivals in five meetings this year, and the second time in Omaha. The Tigers now advance to face the top-seeded Wake Forest Demon Deacons, needing to win two consecutive games to reach the CWS finals.

This shutout was the first time Tennessee had failed to score in 133 games, dating back to a 2021 CWS loss against Virginia. Ackenhausen, primarily a relief pitcher this season with only 22 1/3 innings logged, hadn't started a game since his time at Eastern Oklahoma State last year.

Coach Johnson explained his decision to start Ackenhausen, citing a hunch based on the Tigers' 13-2 record in games where he appeared. Johnson also expressed confidence in Ackenhausen's ability to handle the high-pressure situation. Ackenhausen exceeded expectations, outperforming Tennessee's Drew Beam, a highly touted prospect for the 2024 draft.

Johnson initially hoped for Ackenhausen to pitch three innings and around 60 pitches. However, the left-hander went above and beyond, throwing 93 pitches over six-plus innings, preserving the bullpen for the upcoming games against Wake Forest. LSU scored single runs in the first, sixth, and eighth innings, with two more added in the ninth thanks to a Dylan Crews home run.

Ackenhausen’s performance was particularly impressive given the windy conditions, which he used to his advantage against a powerful Tennessee lineup known for its home run hitting. He effectively mixed his low-90s fastball with a slider and a changeup he developed during his junior college days. While both teams combined for seven hit batters, Ackenhausen maintained composure, showcasing his adaptability and resilience on the mound.