LSU quarterback Garrett Nussmeier received one of the program’s most meaningful honors ahead of the 2025 season. The Tigers awarded him the No. 18 jersey, making him the first LSU quarterback since Matt Mauck to wear the number, linking him to a celebrated Tiger tradition.
Entering the fall, he is projected as one of college football’s top quarterbacks, aiming to guide LSU toward a College Football Playoff appearance. With the No. 18, Nussmeier looks to secure his place among the school’s storied line of signal-callers.
Garrett Nussmeier’s No. 18 Jersey: The Meaning Behind LSU’s Most Cherished Tradition
Garrett Nussmeier was awarded the No. 18 jersey just before Week 1, a distinction given annually to a Tiger who represents leadership, selflessness, and championship character. The honor makes him the first quarterback to wear the number since Matt Mauck in 2003.
The No. 18 holds a unique place in LSU football. While the No. 7 is reserved for a dynamic homegrown talent who elevates those around him, the No. 18 goes to the player seen as the ultimate teammate. It has become one of the most meaningful traditions in Baton Rouge.
The Tradition
Garrett Nussmeier has been awarded the number 18 and becomes the first quarterback to wear it since Matt Mauck pic.twitter.com/3tcx1EL1EG
— LSU Football (@LSUfootball) August 24, 2025
For Nussmeier, the recognition comes ahead of what could be a defining year. The 6’1″ quarterback has compiled 5,772 passing yards and 40 touchdowns in his career, though both an SEC championship and a national title have remained out of reach.
With a roster boosted by impact transfers and a strong group of returning starters, LSU believes this season could bring a breakthrough under coach Brian Kelly.
Mauck, who first wore the number after guiding LSU to the 2003 national championship, welcomed Nussmeier into the fraternity. During a call shared by LSU’s football account on X, Mauck praised the decision.
“About time we got another (quarterback) in there,” Mauck said. He added, “I just sent out a text to somebody, they had asked me what I thought. I said, ‘Today’s college football, guys like you would transfer to another place. So, I think there’s nobody better on that team that embodies what 18 is about more than you.'”
Another quarterback finally joins the prestigious 18 Club
Matt Mauck called Garrett to congratulate him on the opportunity to carry the tradition. pic.twitter.com/fh9j7Mod8o
— LSU Football (@LSUfootball) August 24, 2025
Nussmeier will lead LSU’s offense as a permanent team captain alongside linebacker Whit Weeks, a role he was given on August 24. After four seasons wearing No. 13, he will now take the field in the number that has become a standard of Tiger pride.
His 2024 campaign underscored why he earned the honor. Nussmeier threw for 4,052 yards with 29 touchdowns and 12 interceptions, performances that placed him among the top quarterbacks in the nation.
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Last season, running back Josh Williams and linebacker Greg Penn III represented No. 18. Perkins will keep the No. 7 this year, but Nussmeier now carries the responsibility of extending the legacy of the No. 18 at LSU.
