Brian Kelly Reveals LSU Star QB Nussmeier Is Playing Hurt This Season
(Baton Rouge, Louisiana) - Heading into the season, expectations were high for the third-ranked Tigers' offense, especially with quarterback Garrett Nussmeier returning for his fifth year. However, according to LSU Head Coach Brian Kelly via Louisiana Radio Network, the Heisman candidate has been playing through a torso injury.
Tiger Rag Editor Glenn Guilbeau noted that Nussmeier has been dealing with this injury since preseason camp.
I was told abdomen, which is all the same thing or really close to it
But the bottom line is the throwing motion. That’s going to be painful there, you know. So that might explain his inaccuracies, and he’s just appeared to be off.
Impact on LSU's Passing Game
Nussmeier's performance so far this season reflects these struggles. Through three games, he has completed just 65% of his passes for 689 yards, three touchdowns, and two interceptions. LSU's passing offense currently ranks 11th in the SEC. Guilbeau believes the injury has limited Nussmeier’s ability to throw the deep ball, a key component of the team’s offense.
"He hasn’t thrown as deep much," Guilbeau explained. "Brian Kelly said, yesterday, they haven’t practiced the vertical game as much because he’s been held out of practice."
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Looking Ahead at LSU's Schedule
LSU hopes the upcoming bye week will give Nussmeier the time he needs to recover. Coach Kelly believes the quarterback will be able to get past the injury during the break, which follows the Ole Miss game on September 27. Guilbeau seems confident that the team is handling the situation with care.
"I think they’re handling it smart," Guilbeau said. "If he does mend in the coming weeks and get better, it’ll be just in time for the tougher games."
The Tigers are set to host Southeastern Louisiana this Saturday before visiting Ole Miss the following week.
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