College Football: Top 5 QB battles to watch during spring 2022
By Dante Pryor
4. LSU: Jayden Daniels vs. Garrett Nusmeier vs. Myles Brennan vs. Walker Howard
It is a fatal four-way for the starting job at LSU. Arizona State transfer Jayden Daniels, redshirt freshman Garrett Nusmeier, incoming freshman Walker Howard and redshirt senior Myles Brennan. The Brennan, as mentioned above, was the heir-apparent to Joe Burrow, but injuries and upstarts Max Johnson and T.J. Finley derailed that.
Johnson and Finley have both transferred out, yet Brennan finds himself competing for the starting job once again. This competition might come down to scheme fit. Which quarterback fits what offensive coordinator Mike Denbrock wants to do.
The case for Daniels
Daniels’ case is relatively simple. Why sign him via the portal if you did not want him to start? There were already three scholarship quarterbacks on the roster, and Myles Brennan had starting experience. Daniels does fit what coach Denbrock likes to do offensively, run the quarterback.
The case for Brennan
Brennan is a veteran who has been part of the program for five years now. He has shown a level of adaptability given the number of offensive coordinators. Brennan could adapt to Denbrock’s system and play well.
The case for Nussmeier
Nussmeier has the pedigree and the tools to be a great college quarterback. He has a huge arm and can make every throw. Though not a natural runner, Nusmeier is mobile enough to evade pressure and effectively run if need be.
The case for Howard
Howard is a longshot to start, especially if head coach Brian Kelly and the staff feel they can win now with the rest of the roster. That said, Howard is a top-100 player with the skill set that fits the offense.
Cons
For the younger quarterbacks, they are largely unproven. Nussmeier is raw (he completed just 50 percent of his passes), and Howard has never played in college. Brennan has a history of injuries throughout his career. The inability to stay healthy could derail him again. Daniels has been inconsistent, and questions about his leadership ability are also concerns.
What should the Tigers do?
It does not make sense to sign Daniels if he is not the frontrunner. However, Brennan is a veteran and is talented. What coach Kelly and coach Denbrock want more than anything is for someone to emerge this spring and take the job.