LSU Names Michael Van Buren Starting QB Amid Injuries and Coaching Uncertainty

LSU football enters its final SEC game of the 2025 season amid significant uncertainty, both on the roster and in the coaching staff. Ahead of Saturday’s matchup with Oklahoma, the Tigers have named Michael Van Buren as the starting quarterback, replacing Garrett Nussmeier. This move marks Van Buren’s third consecutive start under head coach Brian Kelly.

Nussmeier has been sidelined recently due to an abdominal issue, missing both the Western Kentucky game and the SEC contest against Arkansas. LSU’s coaching staff cited the health concerns in determining the starting lineup, prioritizing consistency and player readiness for the final stretch of the season.

The quarterback change is only part of a broader set of injury challenges for the Tigers. Multiple key contributors are listed as unavailable, complicating LSU’s offensive preparations and game-planning for the high-profile Oklahoma matchup.

Meanwhile, the program continues to contend with uncertainty off the field. Lane Kiffin’s future remains a talking point in the SEC coaching carousel, while former coach Brian Kelly has publicly criticized LSU following his dismissal, adding another layer of distraction heading into the final weeks of the season.

1. Quarterback Decision

Michael Van Buren has been entrusted with leading the Tigers’ offense after Nussmeier’s absence due to an abdominal ailment. Van Buren will start opposite John Mateer, giving LSU stability at the quarterback position for the third straight game. The decision reflects a desire to maintain rhythm and continuity in a lineup already disrupted by injuries. Van Buren’s previous starts provide experience that could prove critical against a challenging Oklahoma defense. Garrett Nussmeier’s health remains a concern, and the coaching staff emphasized that his absence was precautionary, intended to prevent further setbacks and allow him to recover fully. With Van Buren in command, LSU hopes to minimize disruption and execute a game plan that leverages both veteran experience and the team’s remaining depth.

2. Injuries Affect Key Positions

LSU faces a series of injuries heading into the Oklahoma matchup. Center Braelin Moore and offensive tackle Ory Williams are confirmed sidelined, while wide receiver Aaron Anderson and left tackle Tyree Adams are also unavailable. The absences at key offensive positions complicate blocking schemes and passing options, forcing coaches to adjust personnel packages and practice strategies. Offensive line cohesion and communication will be particularly tested against a strong Oklahoma front. These injuries, combined with Nussmeier’s absence, highlight the challenges of navigating the final SEC game of the season with a depleted roster. Backup players must step up to ensure competitive performance. Managing depth and maintaining execution under pressure will be critical for LSU, especially given the stakes of the Oklahoma contest and the Tigers’ playoff aspirations.

3. Coaching Turmoil and Fallout

Off the field, LSU continues to face challenges stemming from recent coaching changes. Lane Kiffin remains a subject of speculation regarding potential openings at other SEC programs, leaving his long-term role uncertain. Former head coach Brian Kelly publicly criticized LSU following his abrupt dismissal, claiming difficulties in securing future head coaching positions. His attorneys highlighted these concerns, adding another layer of distraction for the program. Kelly’s departure came after a lopsided loss to Texas A&M, marking the Tigers’ third defeat of the season. The timing and circumstances of his exit continue to draw attention, influencing both media coverage and internal program discussions. Despite these challenges, LSU’s current coaching staff, led by Kelly for the final stretch, must maintain focus on preparation and performance, balancing roster management with the external pressures of media scrutiny and leadership transitions.