LSU Tigers QB Garrett Nussmeier is entering the 2025 season with a ring on his finger and featured in EA Sports College Football 26, but is not on the standard cover. The fifth-year senior proposed to his high school sweetheart, Ella Springfield, over the Fourth of July weekend.
In an exclusive interview with Yahoo Sports’ Jason Fitz, Nussmeier opened up about his decision to stay at LSU, the transfer portal’s impact on team dynamics, and the surreal feeling of starring in the iconic video game franchise.
How Does Nussmeier Feel About Being Featured in EA Sports College Football 26?
LSU Tigers QB Garrett Nussmeier can’t hide his excitement for his appearance in EA Sports College Football 26.
“I’m very blessed to be part of this,” he said in the interview. “It’s an unbelievable feeling.” Playing as himself in the game is “a lot of fun,” though not without ribbing from teammates.
“There’s a lot of jokes made,” he laughed, especially when he, rated a 92 in the newest edition, throws a virtual interception. “My buddies are like, ‘It’s you twice, it’s your fault twice.'” Sharing the spotlight with coaches and players, Nussmeier relishes the camaraderie and laughs it brings.
Nussmeier’s journey to QB1 has been a long road. Despite limited early playing time, he resisted the allure of the transfer portal. “It’s important to have an idea of who you are and have a foundation,” he told Fitz, crediting his faith and trust in “God’s timing” for his decision to stay. That loyalty paid off.
The 2024 season was Nussmeier’s first full year as a starter after spending three seasons backing up other quarterbacks. He threw for 4,052 yards and 29 touchdowns in 2024, leading LSU to a 9-4 record and a bowl victory. His patience and commitment to the program finally translated into on-field success.
Staying in LSU’s system, surrounded by familiar coaches and teammates, gave him a “huge advantage.” He added, “I’m very, very blessed and very thankful. I wouldn’t want to be anywhere else than LSU.” His commitment sets the tone for a Tigers squad aiming for the 12-team College Football Playoff.
The transfer portal has a massive role in the college football ecosystem, and Nussmeier acknowledges its presence in the locker room. “There’s definitely conversation in the locker room about guys and who might leave,” he said, noting how he supported teammates through all of their choices.
WHERE DOES LSU’S SLATE STACK UP? CHECK THE TIGERS’ STRENGTH OF SCHEDULE
While his decision to stay worked out, he recognizes it’s “very situational” and doesn’t suit everyone. Knowing that not everyone is in the same position as him, Nussmeier helped his teammates make the right call for themselves.
“Trying to talk to your teammates to pick their mind and see how they’re feeling about things, if there are ways you can, you know, help them out,” he said about his relationship with his teammates.
What Does Nussmeier’s Engagement Mean for His Final Season?
Off the field, Nussmeier’s engagement to Springfield, a recent LSU graduate, added another highlight to his year. The couple, together since high school, went through a brief long-distance stint before Springfield joined him in Baton Rouge.
BREAKING: HUGE MOMENT For the Nussmeier Family. LSU QB Garrett Nussmeier proposes to his girlfriend Ella Springfield @Garrettnuss13 @cnussdreambig @JacobHester18 @TBob53 pic.twitter.com/kaNCdFnvK8
— Lonn Phillips Sullivan (@LonnPhillips) July 6, 2025
Her TikTok posts celebrated their journey, culminating in a proposal captioned, “I get to marry my best friend!!!” Nussmeier’s Instagram story shared the same joy, proclaiming “forever us.”
Springfield graduated from LSU in December 2024, completing her degree while supporting Nussmeier throughout his college career. Their engagement just before his final season shows how personal stability might help him focus on leading the Tigers to new heights.
This personal milestone fuels his drive as he prepares for a defining season. With the expanded College Football Playoff format, LSU has a clearer path to the postseason than ever before.
Nussmeier’s leadership, both on and off the field, will be key to the Tigers’ success in 2025.
