The college football world was rocked by a major announcement when LSU Tigers quarterback Garrett Nussmeier declared his decision to return for the 2025 season. After a breakout 2024 campaign that captured the attention of fans, analysts, and NFL scouts alike, Nussmeier’s choice to forego entering the NFL Draft for another year in Baton Rouge not only surprised many but also ignited renewed hope and excitement for LSU’s future. With the potential to further develop his game and solidify his legacy as one of the greatest quarterbacks in LSU history, Nussmeier is positioning himself and the Tigers for a run at a national championship.
The Decision to Return
Garrett Nussmeier’s decision to return for the 2025 season is significant on multiple levels. At the heart of it, his choice signifies his commitment to LSU and his desire to leave a lasting impact on the program. After spending the 2024 season as the team’s starting quarterback, Nussmeier led the Tigers through one of their most successful seasons in recent memory. Yet despite the success, Nussmeier felt there was still unfinished business to tend to in Baton Rouge—most notably, the pursuit of a national championship.
In the 2024 season, LSU football showed signs of dominance and growth, but they fell just short of reaching the pinnacle of college football—the College Football Playoff National Championship. Nussmeier’s performance during the season was exceptional, but he knew he had more to give, both for himself and for his teammates. Returning for another year would allow him to hone his skills, continue to build chemistry with his offensive teammates, and mature as a leader. But perhaps most importantly, it would give Nussmeier a chance to elevate LSU back into the national championship conversation, something that has eluded the program since their last national title in 2019.
The 2024 Season: A Breakout Year
Garrett Nussmeier’s performance during the 2024 season is what set the stage for his decision to return in 2025. In his first full season as the Tigers’ starting quarterback, Nussmeier proved to be one of the most electrifying and efficient signal-callers in college football. With a strong arm, excellent mobility, and a natural ability to read defenses, Nussmeier demonstrated that he had all the tools to thrive at the highest level of the game.
Under his leadership, LSU’s offense flourished. Nussmeier threw for over 4,000 yards, showcasing his ability to make all the necessary throws at the collegiate level. Whether it was a deep pass down the sideline or a well-placed touch pass in the red zone, Nussmeier displayed an impressive command of the offense. His touchdown-to-interception ratio was one of the best in the country, as he continued to prove that he could not only generate explosive plays but also make smart, calculated decisions with the ball.
Nussmeier’s impact was not just limited to his passing game. His ability to extend plays with his legs added a new dimension to LSU’s offense. His mobility kept defenses on their toes, forcing them to account for both his arm and his legs. Nussmeier’s athleticism allowed him to pick up crucial first downs with his feet, and he even demonstrated the ability to make defenders miss in the open field, making him a dual-threat quarterback in every sense of the term.
The 2024 season was also highlighted by several standout performances. Nussmeier led LSU to victories over tough SEC opponents and showcased his ability to perform in high-pressure situations. His 400-yard passing game against Alabama, which included four touchdown passes, was one of the most memorable moments of the season. It was a game that solidified Nussmeier’s place among the elite quarterbacks in the country and made fans believe that he could be the player to lead LSU back to the promised land.
Despite a few setbacks and growing pains, Nussmeier’s ability to adjust, learn, and improve over the course of the season set the stage for an even better 2025 campaign. His performance during the 2024 season gave him the confidence to make the bold decision to return for one more year and make a final push for a national title.
The Legacy of LSU Quarterbacks
For Garrett Nussmeier, the decision to return for the 2025 season is not just about personal development; it’s about cementing his place in the storied history of LSU football. The Tigers have produced some of the greatest quarterbacks in college football history, and Nussmeier’s desire to join their ranks is clear.
LSU’s quarterback lineage is legendary. From Y.A. Tittle to Bert Jones to Joe Burrow, the Tigers have consistently developed elite quarterbacks who went on to achieve great things both in college and in the NFL. Joe Burrow, in particular, left an indelible mark on the program, leading LSU to a national championship in 2019 and winning the Heisman Trophy in the process. The bar for success at LSU is high, but Nussmeier believes he can match the standards set by his predecessors.
By returning for the 2025 season, Nussmeier aims to finish what he started. He wants to lead LSU to its fourth national title, become a Heisman contender, and ultimately leave Baton Rouge as one of the most accomplished quarterbacks in LSU history. His goal is not only to bring another championship to LSU but also to cement his legacy among the program’s greatest players.
What the Return Means for LSU Football
Nussmeier’s return is a game-changer for LSU football. Not only does it provide the Tigers with a proven and talented starting quarterback, but it also boosts the team’s chances of competing at the highest level in 2025. LSU was already a strong contender heading into next season, but Nussmeier’s decision to come back makes them even more dangerous.
The return of Nussmeier gives LSU stability at the most important position on the field. Quarterback play is often the difference between good teams and great teams, and with Nussmeier under center, LSU has the potential to be elite. His leadership, poise, and ability to make plays will be vital as the Tigers continue to recruit top-tier talent and build their roster for the 2025 season.
Nussmeier’s decision also sends a strong message to LSU’s rivals in the SEC and the rest of college football. The Tigers are back, and they are not content with simply being competitive—they are all-in on competing for a national championship. With Nussmeier leading the charge, LSU’s aspirations for the 2025 season are as high as ever.
The Road Ahead: Championship Contention in 2025
Looking ahead to the 2025 season, LSU will be a team to watch. With Garrett Nussmeier leading the offense, the Tigers will be in the hunt for the SEC Championship and, ultimately, the national title. The road to the championship will be challenging, with SEC powerhouses like Alabama, Georgia, and Tennessee all standing in the way. But with Nussmeier at the helm, LSU has a legitimate shot to make a run at it all.
The Tigers will also look to continue their dominance in recruiting, surrounding Nussmeier with playmakers on both sides of the ball. LSU’s defense, led by one of the most talented defensive units in college football, will play a crucial role in supporting the offense as they navigate their way through a tough SEC schedule. A balanced team with strong leadership at quarterback will be key to LSU’s success in 2025.
As Nussmeier prepares for his final season in Baton Rouge, he will no doubt be driven by the memory of what he has already achieved and the hunger to finish the job. The 2025 season represents an opportunity for Nussmeier to put a definitive stamp on his career at LSU and elevate the Tigers back to national prominence.