Brian Kelly breaks down quarterback play in LSU spring game
After a strong 2022 season, it appears that LSU has exactly what it needs in starting quarterback Jayden Daniels. After throwing for nearly 3,000 yards a season ago, Daniels is back for the Tigers, but so is Garrett Nussmeier, who can also contribute at the position. After LSU’s spring game over the weekend, head coach Brian Kelly analyzed how his two signal-callers performed in the game.
“I thought the quarterback, in Daniels, was very efficient. Played very well,” Kelly said. “I thought Garrett Nussmeier, equally as efficient, and at times doesn’t have the same protection that the Jayden does. And given those circumstances, you can make the case that he was equally, if not better, in some instances. So, pleased with the quarterbacks.”
Both quarterbacks posted solid numbers in the game, led by Daniels. The returning starter went 10-of-11 for 168 yards and two touchdowns in the air. Nussmeier was equally strong, though, going an impressive 5-of-8 for 139 yards and two touchdowns. Daniels connected with Kyren Lacy on a 70-yard touchdown pass on the first offensive play of the game, while Nussmeier would also throw a 70-yard touchdown pass of his own in the third quarter.
The Tigers have no reason to believe they have a quarterback battle on their hands, as Daniels threw for 2,913 yards, 17 touchdowns and just three interceptions a year ago. He also ran for 885 yards and 11 touchdowns on the ground. But if Daniels were to struggle or suffer an injury, Nussmeier appears ready to contribute as well.
Nussmeier backed up Daniels last year and yet still threw for 800 yards, five touchdowns and four interceptions. Nussmeier threw for a season-high 294 yards and two touchdowns in the SEC Championship game against Georgia, proving he has the experience necessary to step in and contribute.
Daniels, Nussmeier can both contribute
Most would expect Daniels to start in 2023 but Kelly has not yet confirmed that. Prior to LSU’s spring game, Kelly expressed confidence in both of his quarterback options. Matthew Brune of The Bengal Tiger on the On3 network provided the following thoughts on Saturday’s quarterback showing.
“It never gets old watching Nussmeier uncork a 60-yard pass placed in the perfect spot,” Brune wrote. “The arm talent is absolutely legit, as we’ve known for some time now. The short-to-intermediate throws were made quickly and on-time. He took a few sacks, but I’m OK with that instead of forcing a throw into traffic. Nussmeier ended the game with 139 yards passing and two touchdowns on 5-of-8 passing. Kelly talked about Nussmeier also not having the starting offensive line like Jayden Daniels.
“Daniels was good on Saturday as well, finishing with 168 yards and two touchdowns on 10-of-11 passing, but Nussmeier’s down-field accuracy was a clear separator for him. I just can’t see him not helping the Tigers win games this season, whether he starts or not. This just continued to enforce what I’ve seen since he was a freshman.”