LSU’s offense is averaging 20 points per game so far this season. The unit has spent a lot of time in neutral with seemingly no explanation, until Tuesday, when Brian Kelly revealed quarterback Garrett Nussmeier has been dealing with a torso injury. Now, with a game versus Southeastern Louisiana on deck, EJ Manuel is calling for Kelly to rest Nussmeier this weekend.
Manuel made his claim via SiriusXM’s College Sports Radio on Wednesday morning. Former LSU player Jacob Hester asked Manuel what he’d do with Nussmeier if he were in Kelly’s position, knowing that backup QB Michael Van Buren — a transfer from Mississippi State — has “started 8 games in the SEC.” Manuel, without hesitation, said he’d hold Nussmeier out.
“Absolutely sit him, yes,” Manuel said. “This is like a 3 or 4-week injury, truly… [and] if [Nussmeier] did go down… wouldn’t you feel a bit more comfortable having known that your backup has had a full game, full reps, a full week of preparation? And he’s not just going into a matchup… against Ole Miss… [or] South Carolina… [or] Vandy. I think this is a great opportunity.”
Manuel believes letting Nussmeier “get as healthy as possible” is key to LSU’s season-long outlook. Allowing him to rest in a game against an FCS opponent, ensuring he’ll be entering their battle with Ole Miss, would seemingly be a smart move. Kelly recently said Nussmeier can’t “shut it down” until a bye week, though, which seemingly indicates he’ll be out there versus the Lions. We’ll see if Kelly changes his mind ahead of a 7:45 p.m. ET kickoff on Saturday (SEC Network).
