Garrett Nussmeier enters the 2025 season as one of the most experienced and accomplished quarterbacks in the SEC. Coming off a 4,052-yard campaign, the first in LSU history by a returning starter, Nussmeier’s growth is at the center of optimism in Baton Rouge.
But according to analysts, while the Tigers have the talent to make a serious College Football Playoff run, key questions remain on both sides of the ball that could ultimately define their season.
How Has Garrett Nussmeier’s Mental Approach Changed LSU’s Offense?
On the “Always College Football” show, analyst Greg McElroy praised Nussmeier’s development, noting that he’s shown significant growth in situational awareness and decision-making.
Last season, the Tigers’ quarterback was tasked with replacing Heisman Trophy winner Jayden Daniels, a daunting challenge that pushed him to play with an aggressive, highlight-driven style.
“He was always trying to make the highlight-reel throw,” McElroy said. “Now he’s comfortable in his own skin.”
Nussmeier returns with a deep and talented receiving corps. Aaron Anderson headlines the group as a dynamic slot option, while Chris Hilton brings vertical explosiveness.
The Tigers also added high-ceiling transfers in Barion Brown (Kentucky) and Nic Anderson (Oklahoma), giving LSU one of the country’s most under-the-radar yet dangerous wideout groups.
Now entering his fifth season, Nussmeier boasts 5,772 passing yards, 40 touchdowns, and a 10-4 career record as a starter. He’s been named a bowl game MVP twice and has already engineered three fourth-quarter comebacks. With another year of experience and a potent offense around him, he’s in a position to become one of the nation’s top quarterbacks.
What Are LSU’s Biggest Concerns in the Trenches?
While Nussmeier’s progress is promising, LSU’s path to success will depend heavily on improvement in the trenches, particularly on the offensive line. The Tigers lost both starting tackles from 2024 and will be forced to test replacements immediately with a high-stakes opener against Clemson.
“We’re going to find out everything we need to know about LSU’s offensive line in the first 20 minutes of that football game,” McElroy said.
Defensively, LSU made notable strides last year under coordinator Blake Baker, improving from 108th to 61st in total defense. More progress is expected in Year 2 of the system, especially with athletic standouts like Harold Perkins, Whit Weeks, and Patrick Payton returning.
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Additions such as Braelin Moore and Josh Thompson bring needed depth, while the scheme’s reliance on speed, stunts, and pressure could turn the Tigers into one of the SEC’s most disruptive units.
However, LSU’s road to the CFP won’t be easy. The Tigers face a brutal schedule featuring road trips to Clemson, Alabama, and Oklahoma, and tough home matchups against Florida, Arkansas, and South Carolina.
“This is the year where they need to make a run,” he said. “And I really believe they can.”
McElroy believes LSU has pushed its chips all in for 2025.
