LSU Tigers Stun Fans with Sudden QB Switch: Who’s Stepping Up in Week 12?

So, here we are again — the LSU Tigers find themselves at a crossroads with their starting QB position just as Garrett Nussmeier battles an abdominal injury that’s throwing a wrench in their Week 12 plans. Now, Nussmeier’s no rookie; five seasons deep with the Tigers and holding the reins as starter since 2024, he’s been steering this ship through some stormy seas. But when a nagging injury pops up at the worst possible moment, what’s a team to do? Enter Michael Van Buren — the underdog ready to take the snaps with that redshirt hanging by a thread. It’s a delicate dance balancing player health, future prospects, and the desperate fight for SEC relevance. Makes you wonder: can the Tigers weather this quarterback shuffle and still roar loud enough to shake the standings? Let’s dive into what this means for LSU’s season and Nussmeier’s road ahead. LEARN MORE.

The LSU Tigers have made a decision regarding the starting quarterback position amid Garrett Nussmeier’s injury for their Week 12 matchup.

Nussmeier is progressing through the fifth season of his collegiate career with the Tigers. He has been the full-time starter since 2024, wanting to bring plenty of success to the program before embracing the next chapter of his career.

However, he picked up an abdominal injury and appeared on the SEC availability report following Thursday’s practice. Interim coach Frank Wilson explained the quarterback’s status as he revealed that Michael Van Buren will start for LSU this weekend.

“A little nagging injury reoccurred itself with Garrett Nussmeier today,” Wilson said on Thursday, per On3 insider Pete Nakos. “And so, I think he’s probable. A little bit concerning, something that we need to monitor and continue to watch with him as we head into the game.”

“Saturday’s game will mark Van Buren’s fourth appearance, meaning one more game after this would burn his redshirt. Wilson addressed that possibility earlier this week,” Nakos wrote.

“Those are the things that you have to take into consideration of student-athlete and family, of what may have been told to them prior and where we’re currently at as a program,” Wilson said. “And we’re taking those appropriate measures.”

What lies ahead for Garrett Nussmeier, LSU

Louisiana State Tigers quarterback Garrett Nussmeier (18) throws during the second half against the Texas A&M Aggies at Tiger Stadium. — Stephen Lew-Imagn Images

LSU is going through a tough period while Garrett Nussmeier recovers from his injury. They are coming off the heels of firing head coach Brian Kelly after a disappointing start to the season.

LSU has a 5-4 record on the season, holding the 10th spot of the SEC standings. With a 2-4 record in conference play, they are above the Florida Gators and Kentucky Wildcats while trailing the Missouri Tigers and Tennessee Volunteers.

Throughout nine games this season, Nussmeier has completed 194 passes for 1,927 yards and 12 touchdowns and five interceptions. As for Van Buren, he completed 18 passes for 224 yards and two touchdowns in his three appearances.

The Tigers will continue preparation for their upcoming matchup, being at home. They host the Razorbacks on Nov. 15 at 12:45 p.m. ET.

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