When the No. 7 LSU Tigers head to Death Valley to take on the No. 9 Clemson Tigers in one of the most anticipated openers of the 2025 college football season, all eyes will be on quarterback Garrett Nussmeier.
Garrett Nussmeier’s Offseason Development
The junior signal-caller, who cemented himself as one of the SEC’s brightest stars in 2024, has been the subject of offseason speculation regarding his health. But according to team sources, LSU fans can breathe easy: Nussmeier is a full-go and there are no concerns on the injury front heading into Week 1.
Garrett Nussmeier looks to be moving back toward 100% after practicing today with NO Knee Sleeve
FULL Practice Highlights: https://t.co/eQkKtbxpKB pic.twitter.com/rHCLafR7Af
— The Verdin Verdict (@verdinverdict) August 18, 2025
Reports out of Baton Rouge indicate that Nussmeier has taken a significant leap from his first full season as LSU’s starter. Coaches and insiders have praised not just his physical health, but also his command of the offense and overall presence on the field.
“The Year 1 to Year 2 jump is there,” one source emphasized, pointing out that Nussmeier’s maturity and ability to make plays under pressure have grown tremendously. After spending last season learning the ins and outs of leading an SEC powerhouse, he now enters 2025 with the confidence and poise expected of a veteran starter.
Historic Numbers in 2024
Nussmeier isn’t just healthy, he’s already proven he belongs in rare company. Last season, he became the first LSU quarterback to return after a 4,000-yard passing season, a feat accomplished by only three other SEC quarterbacks in history: Bryce Young (Alabama), Will Rogers (Mississippi State), and Chad Kelly (Ole Miss).
Come for #LSU QB Garrett Nussmeier without a brace, stay for his dance moves.
LSU offense tightening up here as game week approaches.
Mubenga and Curne now on the line together running with the 1’s to start practice. pic.twitter.com/px4ZecyoEn
— Michael Cauble (@Cauble) August 18, 2025
- Started all 13 games in 2024.
- Led LSU to a 9-4 record, capped off with a Texas Bowl win over Baylor.
- Twice named bowl game MVP, first at the 2024 ReliaQuest Bowl (his debut as a starter) and again at the 2024 Texas Bowl.
- Owns a 10-4 record as a starter.
In just one year under center, Nussmeier already ranks among LSU’s top 10 in several career passing categories, with 31 career appearances and 14 total starts entering his fifth season with the Tigers.
Health Outlook: No Concerns
The question heading into camp wasn’t whether Nussmeier had the talent, but whether he’d be physically ready for a top-10 showdown against Clemson’s aggressive defense. That question has now been answered: Nussmeier is completely healthy and expected to play without limitations.
KEEP READING: Insider Reveals the Reason Behind Garrett Nussmeier’s Practice Role Amid Injury Scare
For LSU, that assurance cannot be overstated. A healthy Nussmeier gives the Tigers stability and star power at the most important position on the field, setting them up for a potential playoff run.
Tigers vs. Tigers: The Road Ahead
The season opener against Clemson will be the perfect litmus test for Nussmeier and LSU. Clemson’s front seven is one of the most talented in the country, and how Nussmeier handles their pressure will go a long way in determining whether LSU can emerge as a legitimate national title contender.
But for now, Tiger fans can rest easy. Nussmeier is fully healthy, confident, and ready to lead LSU into one of the biggest games of the 2025 season.
