There have been substantial changes within the LSU football program, and some fans have wondered if a change at quarterback should also occur.
But interim head coach Frank Wilson said on the SEC Coaches Zoom conference that Nussmeier remains LSU’s starter, but backup Michael Van Buren could also be a part of the game plan.
“Garrett is our starting quarterback. He gives us a great opportunity to be efficient with our offense. Michael has a skill set that adds value to our football team that will be called upon that can help us win the game,” Wilson said.
Nussmeier is a pocket passer, while Van Buren can make plays with his legs. Van Buren’s athletic ability could help the Tigers when they get around the goal line, as the Tigers are ranked 13th in the SEC in Red Zone offense.
However, whether Van Buren will play during crucial moments of the game is still uncertain. Wilson could have been just throwing it out there that Van Buren will be a part of the game plan, just to give Alabama and other opponents something to think about.
Additionally, Van Buren has played in two games, so if he does not play three more games in the regular season, he could preserve this as a redshirt season, thereby gaining an extra year of eligibility. It is unknown if Van Buren would want to burn a chance of having a red-shirt season.
As far as benching Nussmeier, I think that would be unfair. The Nuss Bus has not put up the numbers he did last year, but he has been one of the better performers on offense this season. Plus, Nussmeier sat around for three seasons waiting for his chance to start; it would be a bad look to sit him at this point.
Also, on Wednesday SEC Coaches Zoom conference, Wilson indicated that freshman Carrius Curne will continue to start at left tackle, and they want to give more carries to freshman running back Harlem Berry.
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Former Florida State offensive coordinator Alex Atkins will serve as the play caller for the Tigers, and former NFL QB Tim Rattay will serve as the quarterbacks coach.
Wilson hopes this new offensive staff can put the players in a position to succeed.
“What do our offensive linemen do best, what do our quarterback does best, what do our receivers do exceptionally well, based on that our philosophy has to be thought about through players, no plays,” Wilson said.