Garrett Nussmeier Heads to Bench as LSU Changes Quarterback Against Alabama
LSU made a key quarterback change in the second half of Saturday night’s game against No. 4 Alabama, replacing senior starter Garrett Nussmeier with sophomore Michael Van Buren Jr. midway through the third quarter.
Van Buren entered the game with LSU trailing 17-6 and 6:26 remaining in the third quarter at Bryant-Denny Stadium in Tuscaloosa. It marked his first appearance of the season while the game’s outcome was still undecided.
Interim coach Frank Wilson had hinted that Van Buren might get an opportunity under specific circumstances against the Crimson Tide, yet Nussmeier had previously taken every offensive snap. The substitution signaled a notable shift in LSU’s offensive approach.
Nussmeier’s Performance Before the Switch
Before being benched, Nussmeier completed 18 of 21 passes for 121 yards without a touchdown or interception. He directed LSU’s offense into the red zone early in the third quarter, but the drive stalled after a delay of game penalty and a timeout on third and goal from the 8-yard line.
“It’s unclear whether Nussmeier will return to the game.”
Background and Previous Appearances
Earlier in the season, Van Buren was seen warming up during LSU’s matchup against Southeastern on September 20, 2025, at Tiger Stadium in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. However, he had not yet played in a high-stakes moment until the Alabama contest.
Game and Location Details
- Date: November 8, 2025
- Venue: Bryant-Denny Stadium, University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa
- Opponent: Alabama Crimson Tide
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Author’s Summary
LSU replaced Garrett Nussmeier with Michael Van Buren in the third quarter against Alabama, marking a significant midgame shift amid an uphill battle in Tuscaloosa.