Through two games, the LSU offense has yet to find its groove.
It’s a small sample size, but the Tigers are last in the SEC in points scored, 14th in total offense, last in rush offense, and 11th in pass offense.
The Tigers are breaking in a new offensive line, a new starting tight end, new receivers, so it’s understandable there’s an adjustment period.
“This is what it looks like as you build continuity within your offensive structure so we are not pressing any alarm bells, it’s early in the season, will we get better, do we need to get better… absolutely,” LSU coach Brian Kelly said.
Nussmeier was not great last week against Louisiana Tech. He was 26-of-41 for 237 yards, one touchdown and one interception. Nuss miss fired on several throws, including the one interception he threw.
“I think we are still growing into our identity and work out the kinks,” Nussmeier said.
Nussmeier says the key to the offense is establishing a ground game.
“I think we’ve been very, very good at establishing the run game thus far, I think we made a point of emphasis, in that Clemson game you saw us really dominant the line of scrimmage, at times we were plus 100 rushing yards, to be able to have a run game like that is huge for me as a quarterback and us as an offense to be balanced and do different things,” Nussmeier said.
Nussmeier had a rough game in The Swamp last year against Florida as he threw for 260 yards and one touchdown. But he was sacked seven times as the pressure up the middle on that night was relentless.
Nussmeier wants to avenge that loss and he’s also looking to get some revenge for Florida firing his dad, Doug Nussmeier in 2017. Doug Nussmeier was the Gators offensive coordinator for three seasons and two of those years, Florida played in the SEC Championship game.
“Yeah, I’m not a big fan of the Florida Gators,” Nussmeier said. “I think I’ve made that pretty evident throughout my time here. So, it’s an awesome opportunity, you know it’s a great team, obviously a great program, very storied rivalry, very storied team that we’re playing. And so, I just can’t wait to get into Death Valley, you know and feel that environment, it’s gonna be pretty exciting.”