The Garrett Nussmeier hype is starting again, and it is already reaching an unjustified level heading into the 2025 college football season

The countdown to the 2025 college football season is well underway, and with it, the buzz surrounding LSU quarterback Garrett Nussmeier is growing louder. As the offseason unfolds, the hype surrounding Nussmeier has begun to reach a fever pitch, with analysts, fans, and experts all speculating about his potential to lead LSU to new heights. But as the excitement intensifies, it’s important to take a step back and critically examine the expectations that are being placed on Nussmeier—particularly when many of the assumptions about his readiness to be LSU’s starting quarterback may be overly optimistic, and in some cases, unjustified.

Nussmeier has always been an intriguing prospect. As a highly touted recruit, he showed flashes of brilliance in his first few seasons at LSU, but he has also faced significant hurdles, including inconsistent play and competition with other quarterbacks for the starting role. The pressure on him heading into 2025, combined with his promising talent, has led to an oversaturation of praise that may not be entirely warranted at this stage in his career. While Nussmeier undoubtedly has the potential to be a dynamic playmaker for LSU, it’s important to analyze the circumstances surrounding his development, his performance thus far, and the expectations for him in 2025.

The Rise of Garrett Nussmeier: From Highly Touted Recruit to LSU’s Next Big Thing

Nussmeier, a four-star recruit out of Flower Mound, Texas, committed to LSU in 2021, highly regarded for his arm strength, mobility, and overall potential. His high school highlight reels were filled with dazzling throws that showcased his ability to make every pass in the book—whether it was a deep bomb, a perfectly placed fade, or a quick slant. From the moment he stepped onto campus, he was seen as the future of LSU football at quarterback.

In his freshman season, Nussmeier had an opportunity to play in a backup role behind Max Johnson, who eventually transferred. Nussmeier was thrust into some difficult situations, and while there were some high points, he also showed the growing pains that come with transitioning to the collegiate level. His performance in 2021 was a mixed bag, with flashes of brilliance but also moments of inconsistency. His decision-making and accuracy were areas that needed refinement, especially in high-pressure situations. Nonetheless, his raw talent was evident, and LSU fans were understandably excited about what he could become in the future.

By 2023, the LSU quarterback room was once again in flux. With the arrival of experienced transfer quarterback Jayden Daniels from Arizona State, Nussmeier’s path to becoming LSU’s starter became more complicated. Daniels provided an immediate spark for the offense, leading the Tigers to a remarkable season and eventually securing the starting job. Nussmeier, meanwhile, continued to develop as the backup, gaining valuable experience but largely operating in a supporting role.

The 2024 season was another year of development for Nussmeier, who saw limited action behind Daniels, a steady hand under center. The Tigers’ offense was firing on all cylinders, and Nussmeier’s chances to start remained limited. But as Daniels prepares for the 2025 season (potentially his final year of eligibility), the expectation that Nussmeier will take the reins and become LSU’s starting quarterback has been building. This year could be Nussmeier’s chance to shine, but the hype surrounding him might be more premature than many realize.

Assessing the Hype: The Question of Readiness

One of the central reasons for the growing hype surrounding Nussmeier is the belief that he is ready to lead LSU’s offense in 2025. As a player who has been with the program for multiple years and gained valuable experience, many are ready to see him fulfill the promise he showed as a recruit. But the reality is that Nussmeier has yet to prove that he is fully prepared to take over as the starter.

While it’s undeniable that Nussmeier has flashes of brilliance, his track record is still incomplete. He has not been able to seize the starting job from Daniels, who has had his own ups and downs but still provided more consistency at quarterback. The fact that Nussmeier has not been able to wrest the starting role from Daniels raises questions about his readiness to take the reins of a team with championship aspirations.

His performances in limited playing time have certainly shown his ability to make exciting throws, but they’ve also exposed his lack of consistency. Nussmeier’s decision-making under pressure and his accuracy on intermediate throws have often been areas where he’s struggled. These are critical aspects of being a successful college quarterback, particularly for a team with the high expectations that LSU has in 2025.

Another factor to consider is the strength of LSU’s supporting cast. The Tigers’ offense in 2025 is expected to be dynamic, with talented playmakers at nearly every position. However, Nussmeier’s ability to succeed will also depend on how well he can mesh with the offensive line, running backs, and wide receivers. While LSU has the talent to succeed, the quarterback position is one where even the best teams can falter if the quarterback isn’t able to rise to the occasion.

The Pressure of High Expectations

The hype surrounding Nussmeier is not just about his potential but also the pressure that is being placed on him heading into the 2025 season. LSU, with its rich football tradition and lofty aspirations, is a program where the quarterback position is always under the spotlight. The Tigers are expected to be a contender in the SEC, and Nussmeier is expected to be the leader of that effort. However, with the growing expectations, the pressure on Nussmeier to perform could become a double-edged sword.

The reality is that LSU fans and analysts alike have a tendency to elevate players based on hype and potential rather than actual performance. While Nussmeier has had some solid moments, he has yet to prove that he can consistently perform at a championship level. If LSU struggles in the early part of the 2025 season, there is a strong possibility that the blame will fall squarely on Nussmeier’s shoulders, regardless of whether he deserves it.

Additionally, the narrative surrounding Nussmeier’s potential is already taking on a life of its own. Every positive throw, every successful practice rep, and every piece of praise from teammates or coaches seems to be magnified to new heights. While confidence is crucial for a quarterback, an overabundance of hype can lead to unrealistic expectations. If Nussmeier does not immediately perform at an elite level, the backlash could be swift and intense, leaving him little room for growth or mistakes.

Realistic Expectations for 2025

As much as the hype train continues to roll forward for Garrett Nussmeier, it’s crucial to temper expectations heading into the 2025 season. Yes, he is undoubtedly a talented player, and there is a strong chance that he will be LSU’s starting quarterback. But it’s important to recognize that Nussmeier is still developing as a player and has yet to prove he can perform consistently at the highest level.

Expecting Nussmeier to immediately step in and lead LSU to a national championship in 2025 is a lofty goal, especially given the complexity of the SEC and the demanding nature of college football. Nussmeier will need time to settle into his role and get accustomed to leading a team in high-stakes games. While he has the potential to succeed, it would be unfair to place the weight of LSU’s entire season on his shoulders without recognizing the challenges he still faces.

Additionally, it’s important to consider the coaching staff’s role in Nussmeier’s development. Offensive coordinator Mike Denbrock and head coach Brian Kelly will need to build an offense around Nussmeier’s strengths while addressing his weaknesses. The offensive scheme must be tailored to help Nussmeier grow as a quarterback, and his success will also depend on how well the team functions as a whole.