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The Garrett Nussmeier injury saga continues to evolve in real time as the LSU Tigers remain cryptic and evade what seems like the most obvious answer for what everyone needs. LSU head coach Brian Kelly finally gave some more answers on Wednesday in the wake of their 24-19 loss to Ole Miss. It's not been an easy process for LSU and its fans to accept, but Kelly's handling of it all has only made it more frustrating.
Nussmeier has been playing with an abdominal strain since fall camp, and it's been obvious he's laboring through throws. His deep attempts have been all over the place and his passing motion has been completely different from the efficient movement we saw in 2024. Kelly's expansion of what's going on did give some hope for what's coming, but also creates confusion as to why we're at this point.
The Tigers probably shouldn't be playing Nussmeier, but his best days might be around the corner.
Brian Kelly dispels Garrett Nussmeier surgery rumors
Kelly confirmed that surgery is not currently on the table for Nussmeier. However, the veteran signal-caller is spending the open week focused on recovery, while Mississippi State transfer Michael Van Buren has stepped in to take first-team reps during practice.
Importantly, Kelly noted that Nussmeier has not suffered a setback in his injury, particularly in the lead-up to the Ole Miss game. Still, the decision to keep him active has sparked criticism among fans, many of whom believe LSU’s coaching staff may have mishandled the situation.
Brian Kelly says surgery is not in consideration for Garrett Nussmeier.
— Glen West (@glenwest21) October 1, 2025
It's an ab strain that has taken longer to heal but maintains he's on the "back end" of injury.
"He'll be the Garrett Nussmeier he needs to be as we get into the difficult part of our schedule."#LSU
“A lot of mental work this week in terms of film study and looking at the things he has done during the year. Really, doing a deep dive and, in particular, the things he can control in the game that he wants to get better at," Kelly said. "He was really good (vs. Ole Miss) in run-game checks and getting the ball out when we didn’t have fair numbers.
“Our training staff and physicians have treated him with medication, and that’s been part of the procedures and protocol. We knew coming into this bye week that this was going to be the time for us not to be pushing him.
"This is when he could really, truly be the best version of himself. I think our training staff has done a great job. Again, I think you are going to see the best football as we move forward from Garrett Nussmeier.”
With the team on a bye, Nussmeier’s workload is limited to mental reps and film study. But critics argue those responsibilities could have been prioritized earlier, potentially sparing him from further strain. The perception that Kelly has stubbornly leaned on an injured starter has intensified scrutiny, especially as LSU faces a narrowing path to postseason contention.
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