Garrett Nussmeier Benched During LSU vs. Alabama Game
In the third quarter of the Saturday night game, LSU made a quarterback change by replacing senior Garrett Nussmeier with sophomore Michael Van Buren. This substitution occurred with LSU trailing 17-6 and 6:26 remaining in the quarter at Bryant-Denny Stadium.
Game Context and Player Performance
Before being benched, Nussmeier completed 18 of 21 passes for 121 yards, with no touchdowns or interceptions. He had led LSU into the red zone on the opening drive of the second half. However, the Tigers incurred a delay of game penalty on third and goal from the 8-yard line and then called a timeout. Shortly afterward, Nussmeier was sacked on third and 13—the first sack against Alabama in the game.
Coach’s Remarks and Strategic Insights
LSU interim coach Frank Wilson had indicated Van Buren might see playing time in specific situations against Alabama, though Nussmeier had started and taken every offensive snap until that point.
"It was the first time this season that [Van Buren] played when the game was still in the balance."
Additional Notes
- Michael Van Buren entered the contest in a high-pressure situation with LSU trailing.
- The quarterback change came as LSU sought to shift momentum against the No. 4 ranked team.
- Renewed LSU coverage is available through The Baton Rouge Clinic and related newsletters.
It remains uncertain if Nussmeier will return to the game after the substitution.