Why LSU Football Benched Garrett Nussmeier for Michael Van Buren Against Alabama
In his debut game as LSU's interim head coach, Frank Wilson made a pivotal decision requested by many fans: he replaced senior quarterback Garrett Nussmeier with sophomore Michael Van Buren midway through the third quarter against Alabama at Bryant-Denny Stadium.
Wilson’s Strategic Choice
Wilson explained the reasoning behind the quarterback change post-game:
“As we discussed as a staff, we knew there could be opportunities in the quarterback run game. (Alabama) would make it more difficult sitting in the pocket. We wanted to move (Van Buren) around and do some things. I thought that he gave us a chance to do those things. That went into the thought.”
Game Impact
- LSU was trailing 17-6 when Van Buren entered the game with 6:26 left in the third quarter.
- Van Buren led LSU on a scoring drive following a forced fumble by linebacker Harold Perkins Jr.
- Damian Ramos converted a field goal that cut Alabama's lead to 17-9.
- Despite this momentum, LSU failed to add more points, and Alabama won 20-9.
Season Context
LSU’s record stood at 5-4 overall and 2-4 in the SEC after this matchup against the No. 4 Crimson Tide.
Author’s Summary
Frank Wilson replaced Garrett Nussmeier with Michael Van Buren to use a more mobile quarterback, aiming to challenge Alabama’s pass defense but ultimately fell short as LSU lost 20-9.