Brian Kelly updates state of LSU quarterback competition entering fall camp

LSU head coach Brian Kelly has yet to announce a starting quarterback entering fall training camp. Whether it’s Myles Brennan, Jayden Daniels or Garrett Nussmeier that earns the starting job, Kelly believes all three quarterbacks could get the job done if their number is called.

“I think they’re all anxious to prove what they can do – they want that opportunity,” Kelly said. “They’ve prepared really hard, they’re all in great shape. Their mental preparation – you can see it – it’s so further along than it was now that they know the playbook. I think they’re all anxious to get out there and have the opportunities to showcase what they can do.

“And [the first day of fall training camp], again was much more of an understanding of the basic tenets of footwork and across the field progressions, those kinds of things, and you can see that they’re already past that. They’re ready to move to the next level.”

Before his injury, Brennan was engaged in a battle with Max Johnson for the starting quarterback job at LSU. Brennan also missed the majority of the 2020 season with a torn abdomen as well. Prior to his injury in 2020, Brennan was 79-of-131 for 11 touchdowns and three interceptions. He has thrown for 1,712 yards in his LSU career, which began in 2017.

Nussmeier is the dark horse of the group. A former top 100 recruit and the No. 12 quarterback in the 2021 class according to On3 Consensus, he appeared in four games as a true freshman to maintain his redshirt status. Although his talent is evident, his lack of experience may ultimately cost him in this battle.

Daniels, a former Arizona State quarterback, has the most experience of the bunch. Last season, helped lead the Sun Devils to a bowl game, throwing for 2,380 yards, 10 touchdowns and 10 interceptions on a 65.4 percent completion rate. His effectiveness improved as well, running for 710 yards and six touchdowns.

If Daniels was not to win the starting job outright, the former Sun Devil could fit himself into a situational quarterback role when Kelly wants to run option plays, designed runs or trick plays while also having packages designed specifically for him on third and short-yardage situations and in the red zone. Elsewhere, Brennan could solidify himself as LSU’s veteran leader or Nussmeier can prove why he was one of the top quarterbacks out of the 2021 class – the ball is in Kelly’s court.

LSU’s season will begin Sept. 4 when the Florida State Seminoles head to Death Valley for a Week One date with the Tigers. Still, the question remains – who will take the field when game time begins?