In the world of college football, few stories generate as much buzz as the recruitment of a five-star quarterback. These highly touted prospects often serve as the cornerstone for a team’s future, with their decisions shaping the trajectory of programs across the nation. When Graham Mertz, one of the most coveted quarterbacks of his recruiting class, announced that he would be committing to the LSU Tigers, the college football world stopped and took notice. But perhaps even more stunning were the reports that powerhouse programs like Alabama, Tennessee, and Auburn had rejected the opportunity to land Mertz, allowing LSU to secure his services. This rare combination of talent, decision-making, and program shifts has left fans, coaches, and analysts alike mesmerized by this monumental choice.

Mertz’s commitment to LSU is not just a win for the Tigers—it’s a statement. It reflects LSU’s resurgence as a program, an opportunity for the Tigers to secure their place among the elite in the SEC and college football as a whole. But why did Mertz choose LSU over the likes of Alabama, Tennessee, and Auburn, programs that have long been synonymous with football excellence?

The Phenomenal Rise of Graham Mertz

Graham Mertz has been a highly regarded quarterback prospect for years. His journey began at the high school level, where he played for Blue Valley North High School in Overland Park, Kansas. It didn’t take long for college football programs to take notice of his exceptional skill set. Mertz possesses a unique combination of size, arm strength, accuracy, and football IQ that many NFL scouts see as the ideal prototype for a future franchise quarterback. Standing at 6’4″ and weighing 225 pounds, he has the physical attributes to excel at the highest level, and his high school performances only solidified his reputation.

Mertz’s commitment to LSU marks the culmination of years of hard work and growth. His senior year in high school was exceptional, throwing for over 3,000 yards and leading his team to a state championship. His performance during his high school career demonstrated his ability to lead a team and perform in high-pressure situations, making him one of the top quarterbacks in his class. This led to his five-star status, a title reserved for only the most elite prospects.

The Powerhouses That Rejected Mertz

For a player of Mertz’s caliber, a recruitment process filled with offers from top-tier programs is almost a given. However, what sets this story apart is that major college football programs like Alabama, Tennessee, and Auburn decided against offering Mertz a spot on their roster, choosing other quarterbacks instead. Let’s take a look at why these powerhouse programs turned down Mertz.

Alabama: The Pursuit of Future Stars

Under the leadership of head coach Nick Saban, Alabama has established itself as a juggernaut in college football. The Crimson Tide have been the gold standard of the sport, consistently attracting top-tier talent at every position. Alabama is particularly known for developing elite quarterbacks who can thrive under the pressure of playing for a national championship. In recent years, quarterbacks like Tua Tagovailoa, Jalen Hurts, and Bryce Young have flourished in Tuscaloosa, making Alabama a prime destination for aspiring quarterbacks.

But despite the appeal of playing for a program like Alabama, Mertz wasn’t the top priority for the Tide. Instead, Alabama set its sights on a different quarterback in the 2025 class—Jalen Milroe. Milroe, a dual-threat quarterback from Texas, was seen as the more ideal fit for the Alabama offense, which often leans on a mobile quarterback who can make plays both in the pocket and on the run. While Mertz is an excellent traditional pocket passer, Milroe’s skill set offered a different dynamic that Saban felt was necessary to maintain Alabama’s competitive edge.

This decision by Alabama to pass on Mertz made headlines because of the Tide’s long-standing history of recruiting elite quarterbacks. However, Alabama’s focus on Milroe, a quarterback with similar talent but a different style, has allowed LSU to swoop in and secure Mertz.

Tennessee: The Josh Heupel Revolution

Tennessee football has undergone a significant transformation under the guidance of head coach Josh Heupel, who arrived in 2021. Heupel, known for his up-tempo, high-scoring offense, has brought a sense of excitement back to Knoxville. The Vols’ offense has been particularly explosive, with quarterback Hendon Hooker emerging as one of the top quarterbacks in the SEC. As Tennessee continues to rise as a contender in the SEC, the program’s offensive philosophy plays a crucial role in the type of quarterback they recruit.

Despite Mertz’s obvious talent, Tennessee’s offense thrives with quarterbacks who possess dual-threat capabilities—quarterbacks who can create plays with their legs as well as their arms. Mertz, while an excellent pocket passer, doesn’t quite fit the mold of the mobile quarterbacks that Heupel has preferred to run his offense. Tennessee had its eyes set on quarterbacks like Nico Iamaleava, a highly rated dual-threat quarterback who can stretch defenses with his mobility and make plays both in and out of the pocket.

As a result, Tennessee passed on Mertz, choosing to focus on quarterbacks who fit their system better. This created an opening for LSU, who quickly seized the opportunity to bring in Mertz as their centerpiece for the future.

Auburn: Searching for a Dual-Threat Leader

Auburn has also been a major player in the SEC for years, though the Tigers have faced challenges in maintaining consistency in recent seasons. The hiring of Bryan Harsin as head coach was seen as an opportunity to reinvigorate the program, but his tenure has been marked by inconsistency at the quarterback position. Auburn has struggled to find a quarterback who can lead them to the next level, and this is where Mertz could have made an impact. However, Auburn opted to take a different direction with its quarterback search.

Much like Tennessee, Auburn’s offense has leaned towards recruiting quarterbacks who can excel in a dual-threat system. While Mertz’s skill set as a pocket passer is undeniable, Auburn decided to invest in quarterbacks who could provide more of a dual-threat dynamic, which better aligns with the style of offense that Harsin and his staff wanted to run. As a result, Mertz was left off their list of top targets, and the door was open for LSU to swoop in and make a move.

Why Mertz Chose LSU

With Alabama, Tennessee, and Auburn out of the picture, Mertz turned his attention to LSU, a program that has a rich football history and the tools to develop elite quarterbacks. There are several reasons why Mertz chose LSU over other programs.

The Quarterback Development Factor

LSU has a long-standing reputation for developing top-tier quarterbacks. The Tigers have produced several NFL-caliber quarterbacks over the years, including Joe Burrow, who led LSU to a national championship in 2019. Burrow’s rise to superstardom has helped establish LSU as a place where quarterbacks can thrive under a big spotlight. Mertz saw the opportunity to follow in Burrow’s footsteps, developing his skills under the tutelage of LSU’s coaching staff.

Under the guidance of offensive coordinator Mike Denbrock and head coach Brian Kelly, LSU has built a reputation for creating pro-ready quarterbacks. Denbrock has a history of working with talented quarterbacks, and Kelly’s offensive philosophy emphasizes a balanced, efficient attack that would help Mertz maximize his strengths.

The Fit for Mertz’s Style

Mertz’s skill set is well-suited for LSU’s pro-style offense. Unlike the up-tempo systems of Tennessee and Auburn, LSU has shown a commitment to developing quarterbacks who excel in traditional passing offenses. Mertz’s ability to read defenses, his strong arm, and his poise in the pocket make him a natural fit for LSU’s system. With a deep supporting cast of talented receivers and a strong offensive line, Mertz will have the tools he needs to succeed immediately.

LSU’s Program Resurgence

LSU is in the midst of a program resurgence under head coach Brian Kelly. After a challenging few seasons following the 2019 national championship, Kelly’s leadership has re-established LSU as a formidable force in the SEC. The Tigers are on the rise, and Mertz saw an opportunity to be the face of that resurgence. By committing to LSU, he’s aligning himself with a program that has the resources, coaching staff, and pedigree to compete for national titles year in and year out.

The Future of LSU Football

Graham Mertz’s decision to commit to LSU marks a pivotal moment in the program’s future. His choice to bypass elite programs like Alabama, Tennessee, and Auburn speaks volumes about LSU’s position in college football. With Mertz under center, LSU now has a dynamic quarterback capable of leading them back to national prominence.

The future of LSU football is bright, and Mertz’s commitment is just the beginning of an exciting new era. With the right coaching, supporting cast, and leadership, Mertz has the potential to become one of the best quarterbacks in college football, and his presence will undoubtedly elevate LSU’s already talented roster. College football fans will be watching with bated breath as Mertz steps into Baton Rouge, ready to take the SEC—and the nation—by storm.

When it comes to dynamic duos in the world of football, few have made the kind of impact that Joe Burrow and Ja’Marr Chase have, both on and off the field. The two have not only become legends at Louisiana State University (LSU) but have also helped turn the Cincinnati Bengals into a championship contender in the NFL. Their bond goes beyond just football; it is a friendship forged in the fires of competition, mutual respect, and an undeniable chemistry that has powered both their college and professional careers.

From their days lighting up the LSU Tigers offense to dominating the NFL together with the Bengals, Burrow and Chase’s friendship is one of the most compelling stories in modern football. Let’s take a closer look at how their bond began, how it evolved, and how it continues to thrive in the NFL as they chase greatness together.

The LSU Connection: A Bond That Began on the Field

Joe Burrow and Ja’Marr Chase’s relationship began when Burrow transferred to LSU in 2018. Burrow, after spending his first few college years at Ohio State, arrived in Baton Rouge with something to prove. At the time, LSU was struggling to find a consistent quarterback, and Burrow’s arrival was expected to be the missing piece for a program with championship aspirations.

Enter Ja’Marr Chase, a wide receiver recruit who had committed to LSU before Burrow’s arrival. Chase was highly regarded as a player with immense potential, but he was still relatively unproven in the college football world. When Burrow and Chase first stepped onto the practice field together in 2018, neither knew that their partnership would go down as one of the most iconic quarterback-wide receiver duos in history.

In their first season together, the LSU offense struggled to find its rhythm, and Burrow’s first year at LSU was a learning experience. The Tigers posted a solid 10-3 record, but they were far from the powerhouse that would soon emerge. However, something clicked between Burrow and Chase, and that connection would prove to be the foundation for LSU’s explosive offense in 2019.

The Rise of LSU’s Historic 2019 Team

The 2019 season was a breakout year for both Burrow and Chase. Burrow, now in his second year as LSU’s starting quarterback, was rapidly improving under the guidance of offensive coordinator Joe Brady, who implemented a more wide-open, pro-style offense. The combination of Burrow’s accuracy, leadership, and decision-making with Brady’s system allowed LSU’s offense to flourish in ways they hadn’t before.

Chase, now a sophomore, stepped up as one of Burrow’s go-to targets. His speed, ability to create separation, and exceptional hands made him a nightmare for opposing defenses. As the season progressed, it became clear that Burrow and Chase shared a unique chemistry—a connection that made them unstoppable on the field.

Chase finished the 2019 season with 84 receptions for 1,780 yards and 20 touchdowns. His playmaking ability was one of the key reasons LSU was able to run through the SEC and ultimately win the College Football Playoff National Championship. The pair’s connection was on full display in LSU’s 42-25 victory over Clemson in the national championship game, where Burrow threw for 463 yards and five touchdowns, including a long strike to Chase.

That season, Burrow would go on to win the Heisman Trophy, becoming one of the most dominant and decorated quarterbacks in college football history. Chase, in turn, cemented his status as one of the top wide receiver prospects in the country. But more than just their individual accolades, it was their on-field chemistry that left a lasting impact on LSU’s football program and the college football world.

The NFL Draft: A Natural Pairing in Cincinnati

After their national championship victory, both Burrow and Chase were poised to make the jump to the NFL. Burrow was widely considered the No. 1 overall pick in the 2020 NFL Draft, and it was clear that he would be the franchise quarterback for whichever team selected him. The Cincinnati Bengals, who held the first overall pick, were in need of a quarterback and quickly selected Burrow to lead their rebuilding effort.

As for Chase, he declared for the 2021 NFL Draft, where he was widely expected to be one of the first wide receivers selected. Despite some questions surrounding his decision to sit out the 2020 season due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Chase’s talent was undeniable. He had dominated the college football landscape in 2019 and was regarded as one of the best wide receiver prospects in years.

The Bengals, with the fifth overall pick in the 2021 NFL Draft, faced a decision: Should they draft Chase’s former LSU teammate to reunite them in Cincinnati, or should they select an offensive tackle to protect Burrow, who was recovering from a knee injury? The Bengals ultimately chose to reunite the two former LSU stars, selecting Chase with the fifth pick in the draft.

The decision was met with some skepticism at the time, especially with Burrow’s injury still fresh in the minds of Bengals fans. However, the pairing of Burrow and Chase proved to be a stroke of genius. Not only did it give Burrow a familiar weapon to throw to, but it also allowed the Bengals to create a potent offense that was difficult for any defense to stop.

Dominating the NFL: A Quick Transition to Success

From the moment they hit the field together for the Bengals, Burrow and Chase picked up right where they left off at LSU. The connection between the two was immediate, as if they had never been apart. Burrow’s ability to trust Chase in critical moments—whether it be on third downs, deep shots down the field, or in the red zone—was a significant part of the Bengals’ offensive success.

Chase made an immediate impact in his rookie season, setting a rookie record for receiving yards in a season with over 1,400 yards and 13 touchdowns. His electrifying play, combined with Burrow’s poise and accuracy, helped transform the Bengals into one of the most potent offenses in the league. The duo’s success continued to build as they led the Bengals to the AFC Championship and an appearance in Super Bowl LVI in their second season together. Their bond, which had been forged at LSU, now had the chance to shine on the biggest stage in the NFL.

In their rookie seasons, Burrow and Chase quickly became household names. Their relationship on the field was only matched by their connection off it. The pair’s work ethic, love for the game, and camaraderie were evident in their interactions, and their bond only deepened as they navigated the challenges of the NFL together.

Off-Field Friendship: More Than Just Teammates

While Burrow and Chase’s on-field success is remarkable, it is their off-field friendship that truly sets them apart. Both players have spoken about the importance of their relationship and how it extends beyond football. For Burrow, who grew up in Ohio and has a strong work ethic instilled in him by his family, Chase’s energy and attitude were a perfect complement.

Chase, on the other hand, has often spoken about how comfortable he feels with Burrow, having played with him for so long. The trust between the two is palpable, and their friendship has allowed them to navigate the pressures of professional football with ease. Whether it’s laughing on the sidelines, celebrating big plays, or supporting each other in difficult times, their friendship is a key factor in their success.

Beyond football, Burrow and Chase have also worked together to give back to their communities. Both players are involved in charitable activities, using their platforms to support causes that are important to them. Their bond, forged through football, has extended into their personal lives, making them two of the most well-respected and beloved figures in both Cincinnati and the LSU community.

Looking Toward the Future: A Legacy in the Making

As Burrow and Chase continue to grow in the NFL, their legacy is already solidified. What began as a connection at LSU has evolved into one of the most dynamic duos in the NFL. The future looks incredibly bright for the Bengals as they continue to build around their franchise quarterback and star wide receiver.

The bond between Burrow and Chase is rare. It’s the kind of relationship that transcends the game—a friendship that has lasted from their college days and will continue to thrive as they chase championships together in the NFL. Whether they’re leading the Bengals to playoff glory or simply enjoying their time together as teammates and friends, Burrow and Chase have proven that true chemistry, both on and off the field, is an unstoppable force.

As the Bengals look toward future seasons, there’s no doubt that Burrow and Chase will continue to make their mark on the league. Their journey from LSU legends to NFL icons is far from over, and the best may be yet to come.