Brian Kelly Says LSU Has "two starters" at Quarterback Ahead of 2023 Season

The Seminoles open their campaign with a rematch against LSU in Orlando.

Florida State's rematch against LSU is one of the most important games on the schedule. With both teams expected to open the 2023 season ranked inside the top-15 or higher, a victory in Orlando could be the first step to a run to a conference title or College Football Playoff berth.

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It's not going to be easy after the matchup with the Tigers came down to a single point a season ago. LSU is returning a bunch of talent on both sides of the ball, including a pair of skilled quarterbacks - senior Jayden Daniels and redshirt sophomore Garrett Nussmeier.

While speaking on the Paul Finebaum Show last month, LSU head coach Brian Kelly noted that the team has "two starters" at the quarterback position.

"We have two starters (at quarterback)," Kelly said. "Both of them can win in the SEC. Both of them can play at the highest level. We're blessed and fortunate. It is difficult to have two. It's important that we continue to work both of them this Saturday with the first unit. Garrett will get an opportunity to play with the first as well."

While Daniels started all 14 games for the Tigers last season and completed 68.6% of his passes for 2,913 yards with 17 touchdowns to three interceptions, Nussmeier is continuing to push him for the starting job. He flirted with entering the portal before deciding to stick around in Baton Rouge.

Both quarterbacks put together notable performances during LSU's spring game in April. Daniels completed 10/11 passes for 168 yards and two touchdowns while connecting with wide receiver Kyren Lacy on a 70-yard score on the first play of the exhibition. Nussmeier connected on 5/8 passes for 139 yards and two touchdowns. He was also about to record a 70-yard scoring pass with a throw to wide receiver Landon Ibieta.

Kelly thought that Nussmeier was as good or even better in different parts of the spring game.

"I thought the quarterback, Daniels, was very efficient, played very well. I thought Garrett Nussmeier, equally as efficient and at times doesn’t have the same protection that Jayden does," Kelly said after the game. "And given those circumstances, you know, you could make the case that he was equally if not better in some instances. So, pleased with the quarterbacks."

While Nussmeier is keeping Daniels honest at LSU, Florida State's Heisman candidate Jordan Travis has the reins under control in Tallahassee.

In all likelihood, it'll probably be Daniels trotting out when the Tigers take the field on Labor Day weekend. The Seminoles struggled to hold him in check last season but still prevailed 24-23.

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