With 30 completions and two touchdowns it’s easy to tell Garrett Nussmeier played a phenomenal game. A look behind the numbers can reveal more about his starting debut this season.
Despite a 27-20 loss to the Trojans, Nussmeier performed admirably in the Tigers’ season opener. He finished with a 77% completion percentage, connecting with 10 different targets along the way. Understanding the nuances of those numbers can better project his season.
But before evaluating the quarterback, it’s important to understand the defense he was playing against. USC defensive coordinator D’Anton Lynn devised an effective game plan on Sunday.
The Trojans regularly used simulated pressures to leave Nussmeier and the offense guessing on whether or not to expect a blitz. Some plays would result in a Cover 0 blitz, some resulted in seven dropping into coverage.
This unpredictable style can cause throwaways, waste downs or clogged up options downfield often resulting in a checkdown for little gain.
This played a significant role in LSU stretching the field more horizontally than they did vertically. Despite his gunslinger reputation, Nussmeier still excelled. His ability to take the easy throw and deliver quick passes showed an ability to adapt that every great quarterback needs.
Of his incompletions only three were outright misses, one of which came on a third and long when defenses can commit to defending the pass.
Three of his incompletions were throwaways or prayer throws in the face of a free rusher.
One of Nussmeier’s incompletions came on what was also one of his best throws. A throw to Kyren Lacy at the back right pylon was just out of bounds by mere inches. Despite the outcome, the throw displayed great touch and anticipation.
Similarly, a second quarter throw to Mason Taylor was fingertips away from being one of the best throws of the night. Nussmeier delivered a bullet to a post route that would’ve been completed had it not been for a Trojan player getting his fingers on it. More touch on the throw or even just waiting a few beats could’ve changed the outcome of this play.
His last incompletion came with his only interception of the night, with four seconds on the clock and the whole field to cover.
Easily his best throw was a left pylon floater to Lacy. The ball was released near the 30-yard line and before Lacy even reached the 10-yard line. It couldn’t have been put in a better spot. Lacy was able to go up and get it, while maintaining both feet in bounds.
Ball placement and anticipation were strengths of Nussmeier’s game all night. He frequently delivered on tight window throws in various levels of the field.
Outside of three true incompletions, there wasn’t much room for improvement. Three of LSU’s punts came after two runs and a checkdown pass. Some of that comes from the erratic nature of Lynn’s defense, and some of that comes from LSUs at-times ineffective run game.
Facing a defense that can vary so significantly pre-and post-snap is a tall task for a first-time starter. Facing a different type of defense will likely allow for more vertical attacks, where fans know Nussmeier shines. An improved run game and the return of wide receiver Chris Hilton Jr. will also make a significant difference.
The loss hurts, but the Tigers’ new starting quarterback gives plenty of reason for excitement.