Garrett Nussmeier spent three years at LSU patiently serving as a backup quarterback to Heisman Trophy winner Jayden Daniels before taking over as the starting quarterback. During this time, Nussmeier resisted the temptation to enter the transfer portal, instead choosing to develop his skills and mindset by closely observing Daniels. Now, leading LSU’s offense, Nussmeier applies the valuable insights he gained from Daniels both on and off the field.

Learning from a Unique Talent and Leader

Nussmeier’s journey at LSU started in 2021 when he joined the program as a highly regarded four-star recruit from Flower Mound, Texas. He redshirted his first season and spent the next two working behind Jayden Daniels, who transferred from Arizona State and earned the Heisman Trophy in 2023. Despite external pressure to transfer, Nussmeier stayed committed to LSU and benefited from watching Daniels’ exceptional play and preparation habits.

Reflecting on his experience, Nussmeier said,

“Obviously, it was kind of difficult for me just because, I mean, you watch Jayden play, he is an unbelievable talent,”

and added,

“We’re so different, you know, on the field. I mean, I can’t do the things that he could do.”

Highlighting Daniels’ athletic ability, Nussmeier pointed to his incredible runs, including those against Florida, describing them as

“superhuman runs.”

However, the most impactful lessons came from observing Daniels’ daily work ethic and approach to preparation. Nussmeier explained,

“What I learned the most from Jayden was just watching him on a day-to-day basis… how he interacted in the building, what his process was, taking notes from the things that he did to prepare.”

Choosing to Stay Committed and Lead LSU to Glory

Instead of declaring for the 2025 NFL Draft, Nussmeier decided to return for a fifth year, driven by the goal to finish what he started at LSU. He expressed a strong connection to the university and its culture, stating,

“I didn’t want to watch anybody else be the guy that leads LSU to a national championship,”

and added,

“LSU means the world to me. Louisiana means the world to me… God brought me to LSU for a reason.”

While not originally from Louisiana, Nussmeier said he has embraced the state fully. He remarked,

“Everybody that is from Louisiana probably can understand it,”

and described LSU’s fanbase and environment as,

“It’s one state around one team… There’s no place like Death Valley.”

Facing New Challenges with Key Departures and Fresh Talent

As LSU prepares for the 2025 season, Nussmeier must lead an offense that has lost important players such as tight end Mason Taylor, who was selected in the second round of the NFL Draft by the New York Jets. However, LSU gained several impactful players in transfers Nic Anderson from Oklahoma and Barion Brown from Kentucky, adding new playmaking options to the roster.

Additionally, Nussmeier will collaborate with an offensive line that features four new starters. Transfers Josh Thompson and Braelin Moore are expected to compete for key roles alongside returning lineman Tyree Adams. After finishing fifth in passing yards nationally with 4,052 yards and tying for tenth in touchdown passes last year, Nussmeier begins LSU’s national title campaign facing Clemson in Week 1 of the 2025 season.

The Path Forward for LSU’s Signal-Caller

Garrett Nussmeier’s journey from a patient backup to LSU’s starting quarterback highlights a story of perseverance, learning, and dedication. By absorbing valuable lessons from Jayden Daniels, Nussmeier has equipped himself with the tools necessary to lead LSU’s offense through a period of change and heightened expectations. With a strong connection to the team’s culture and an unwavering focus on winning a national championship, his leadership will be vital as LSU aims to challenge for top honors in the highly competitive SEC and national landscape.