Will LSU football's Garrett Nussmeier return for regular season finale

According to a report from On3's Pete Nakos, LSU quarterback Garrett Nussmeier is doubtful for Saturday's game against No. 8 Oklahoma. The fifth-year senior was benched against Alabama and hasn't played since.

The news means backup Michael Van Buren is likely in line for his third-straight start. The Tigers carry a two-game win streak into the regular season finale in Norman after closing out their home slate with a 13-10 win over Western Kentucky.

Nussmeier suffered a torso injury during fall camp and never fully recovered. He struggled to make explosive throws and took several hits playing behind an injury-plagued offensive line. After losing back-to-back games against Vanderbilt and Texas A&M, LSU fired former head coach Brian Kelly and was virtually eliminated from playoff contention.

Oklahoma possesses arguably the best front seven in the country. Fielding its No. 2 passer behind a makeshift offensive line means LSU is likely in for a long night. The Tigers struggled to score against a Group of Six team in the Hilltoppers after inching out a win against the Razorbacks.

This article originally appeared on LSU Wire: Will LSU football QB Garrett Nussmeier play vs. Oklahoma?