Short answer: LSU benched quarterback Garrett Nussmeier in their Week 11 loss to Alabama, sending in backup Michael Van Buren. This followed a disappointing offensive showing and a pivotal sack in the red zone, and it marked a change that generated a lot of discussion about LSU’s quarterback situation going forward.

Context and details

• The move happened during the Alabama game, with LSU trailing and the coaching staff deciding to substitute Van Buren for Nussmeier in the third quarter.

• Michael Van Buren, a Mississippi State transfer in 2025, stepped in as the new signal-caller and offered a different skill set to jump-start the offense.

• The benching came after a season where Nussmeier started for LSU and had been a focal point of preseason Heisman chatter, but the 2025 season had seen a mix of struggles and turnover in results.

What this means going forward

• LSU’s interim coach, Frank Wilson, indicated the move was game-specific but shows a willingness to adjust at quarterback if the situation demands it. The decision hinted at a wider competition or at least a measured rotation to maximize offensive output.

• Van Buren’s performance in limited action earlier in 2024 at Mississippi State provided a baseline for potential as an in-game contributor, suggesting LSU is evaluating multiple options at the position.

If you’d like, I can pull up the latest postgame notes, player quotes, and any official statements from LSU’s program to clarify the current status and any announced plans for the starting role.