What’s the most important thing for LSU football QB Garrett Nussmeier this spring?

As spring football begins in Baton Rouge, LSU Tigers quarterback Garrett Nussmeier finds himself at a critical juncture in his college career. The highly touted former five-star recruit has shown flashes of brilliance, but as the Tigers prepare for the upcoming season, one question looms large: what is the most important thing for Nussmeier this spring?

For Nussmeier, the 2024 spring practices will be a defining moment. With his role as the starting quarterback still up for grabs after the departure of former LSU quarterback Jayden Daniels to the NFL, Nussmeier’s performance this spring will shape his future, not only at LSU but within the broader college football landscape. This is an incredibly important spring, as it offers Nussmeier an opportunity to seize the starting role, sharpen his skills, and solidify his place as the leader of the offense.

There are many facets of Nussmeier’s game that need to be honed, but the most important thing for him this spring can be distilled into one overarching goal: consistency.

1. Consistency in Performance

While Nussmeier’s potential has never been in doubt, his ability to show consistency on the field has been the major question mark. For LSU’s offense to function at a high level and for Nussmeier to gain the trust of his coaches, teammates, and fans, he must prove that he can deliver at a consistently high level.

Throughout his early career at LSU, Nussmeier has shown glimpses of the talent that made him a highly sought-after recruit. In his limited appearances, he’s displayed an impressive arm, good mobility, and the ability to make pinpoint throws under pressure. However, those flashes have often been inconsistent. He has had moments where he looked like an elite quarterback but has also had stretches where his decision-making and accuracy have let him down.

In a position like quarterback, where leadership and execution are paramount, inconsistency is a killer. Last season, LSU’s offense was successful with Jayden Daniels under center, thanks to his dual-threat ability and his overall steady play. With Daniels now gone, LSU is looking for the next leader who can bring stability to the position. In this way, Nussmeier’s performance this spring is crucial, as he needs to prove that he can be a reliable leader who can make plays week in and week out.

This isn’t just about making big throws or running for touchdowns. It’s about ensuring that the offense is humming smoothly, with precise throws, good decision-making, and an ability to keep the chains moving. By developing consistency in his performance, Nussmeier will show that he’s the type of quarterback who can handle the pressure of being the LSU starter.

2. Commanding the Offense and Developing Chemistry

A quarterback’s job is more than just executing plays—he must also be the emotional and mental leader of the team. While Nussmeier certainly has the physical tools to succeed, another important thing for him to focus on this spring is his ability to command the offense and develop chemistry with his receivers.

LSU has an array of talented skill players, including standout wide receivers and running backs who can make plays in a variety of ways. For Nussmeier, the spring is the perfect time to work on his rapport with these players and build chemistry, particularly with the wide receiver corps. The Tigers have a talented receiving group, but for the offense to click, Nussmeier must have a sense of timing and trust with each receiver. Whether it’s understanding their tendencies, knowing when to deliver the ball to their ideal spots, or trusting them to make plays in critical situations, the quarterback-receiver relationship is one that must be developed over time.

Moreover, the quarterback must lead by example. Nussmeier’s leadership will be key in this regard. It’s one thing to throw a perfect pass, but it’s another to lead the team through adversity, make adjustments on the fly, and inspire confidence in those around you. This spring, Nussmeier will need to demonstrate that he can be a true leader, both on the field and in the locker room. This means holding himself accountable and encouraging his teammates to elevate their game.

For a quarterback like Nussmeier, developing this rapport and confidence in his receivers, while also earning the respect of his offensive line, is essential. If he can do this, he will have a much higher chance of becoming the stable leader LSU needs going into the season.

3. Making Quick, Smart Decisions

One of the most important aspects of playing quarterback at the highest level is decision-making. For Nussmeier, spring practice presents an opportunity to sharpen his decision-making abilities and cut down on mistakes.

In college football, the difference between a good quarterback and a great one often comes down to how quickly they can process information and make decisions. Quarterbacks are asked to read defenses, recognize blitzes, and adjust protections—all while staying calm in the pocket and executing the play. For Nussmeier, this will be a critical focus in his development.

While he has shown impressive arm strength and the ability to make plays under pressure, one area where Nussmeier has sometimes struggled is with decision-making under duress. At times, he has forced throws into tight coverage or hesitated to make the right read. Over the course of the spring, it’s essential that Nussmeier gets better at making split-second decisions without hesitation, whether it’s identifying a blitz or reading the coverage correctly.

A significant part of this is learning how to avoid negative plays. Quarterbacks are often judged by their ability to protect the football, and for Nussmeier, limiting turnovers will be paramount. Whether through interceptions or sacks, mistakes can kill momentum and change the course of games. For Nussmeier to show that he’s the right guy for the job, he’ll need to show that he can make smart decisions, protect the football, and keep the offense on track.

This is an area that Nussmeier can improve upon by studying film, learning from past mistakes, and continuing to develop his football IQ. Spring practice will give him a chance to work on this critical aspect of his game, especially as the coaching staff will likely put him through various game situations to test his decision-making abilities.

4. Developing Mental Toughness and Resilience

While Nussmeier’s physical tools are undeniable, one of the most important aspects of playing quarterback is mental toughness. The quarterback position is often described as the most mentally demanding on the field, and for Nussmeier, developing that resilience will be crucial as LSU enters a new season.

Over the course of the spring, Nussmeier will face challenges. Whether it’s dealing with mistakes, enduring long days of practice, or being asked to perform under intense pressure, this spring will be a test of his mental fortitude. Can he shake off a poor series? Can he rally his teammates after a mistake? These are the kinds of challenges that every successful quarterback must face, and Nussmeier will need to prove that he can stay focused and composed, no matter the circumstances.

As a leader of the team, Nussmeier’s mental approach to challenges and adversity will serve as a reflection of the team’s overall mindset. If he can maintain his poise and demonstrate resilience in tough situations, his teammates will take notice and follow suit. If he allows frustration or mistakes to affect his performance, it will have a ripple effect on the team.

5. Executing Under Pressure

Lastly, Nussmeier will need to focus on executing under pressure. College football is often a game of high-stakes situations, and LSU will need a quarterback who can deliver in crunch time. Whether it’s a game-winning drive, making a clutch throw on third down, or keeping the offense moving under pressure, Nussmeier must prove that he can rise to the occasion when the game is on the line.

This spring, Nussmeier will be tested in situational drills that simulate high-pressure moments. It’s important that he shows that he can stay calm, trust his preparation, and make the big plays when it matters most.