About two weeks ago, LSU fans in Baton Rouge collectively exhaled a sigh of relief. The team had faced significant challenges recently, including three consecutive losses that dashed their playoff hopes and a disappointing Signing Day that saw them miss out on top recruit Bryce Underwood. The situation seemed dire. However, LSU has managed to turn things around, securing a win in the Texas Bowl and receiving confirmation that quarterback Garrett Nussmeier will return for another season instead of entering the NFL draft. Despite these positives, LSU is set to lose a couple of key players who have been pillars of the team’s strength.
The relationship between a quarterback and a running back is essential for a football team’s success. Their partnership is inherently reciprocal—each player’s success enhances the other’s performance. With LSU bidding farewell to its graduating running backs, Garrett Nussmeier has been reflecting on the bonds he formed with these teammates.
The Texas Bowl was a memorable occasion for LSU, and the players made the most of it. Running back Josh Williams, in his final game for the Tigers, scored a touchdown on a direct snap, embodying the spirit of bowl games. Nussmeier took to Instagram to honor Williams, highlighting his contributions and expressing his gratitude. In a heartfelt message, he wrote, “Nobody more deserving…been a fun ride 18…Gonna miss you fam love ya.” He also paid tribute to Tyson Edwards, another departing running back, after Edwards shared a photo of the two of them together, with Nussmeier holding his Texas Bowl MVP trophy. Edwards captioned the post, “Proud of u brudda,” to which Nussmeier responded, “[You know] what it is…been a long ride.”
Nussmeier’s MVP performance in the Texas Bowl was the culmination of an upward trajectory that began earlier in the season. He played exceptionally well in LSU’s final regular-season game against Oklahoma, despite battling a shoulder injury sustained in the first half. After the game, Nussmeier revealed that his determination to play through the pain was fueled by a desire to honor the seniors playing their last game at Tiger Stadium. The farewell to his teammates has been an emotional process.
Off the field, Nussmeier has faced his share of challenges. His girlfriend, Ella Springfield, is graduating from LSU, which has undoubtedly influenced his decision-making about his future. Although he considered entering the NFL draft, several factors ultimately persuaded him to stay with LSU, a program that clearly needs his leadership and talent.
Nussmeier’s decision to return to LSU was not an easy one. As the son of Doug Nussmeier, a former NFL quarterback and current quarterbacks coach for the Philadelphia Eagles, Garrett has grown up in an environment that has prepared him for professional football. Doug’s experience coaching for the Chargers and Cowboys has also contributed to Garrett’s development. Additionally, LSU has a strong legacy of producing top-tier quarterbacks, including Joe Burrow and Jayden Daniels, which enhances Garrett’s prospects.
Standing at 6’2” and weighing about 200 pounds, Nussmeier possesses the physical attributes NFL teams covet. He is mobile in the pocket and has a strong arm, evident in multiple games where he threw for over 400 yards this season. Despite his readiness for the NFL, Nussmeier chose to maximize his eligibility at LSU, a decision that benefits both him and the program.
LSU head coach Brian Kelly, who faced significant pressure after missing out on Bryce Underwood, will be relieved to have Nussmeier for another year. However, the quarterback will need to adapt to a revamped running back unit and navigate a potential long-distance relationship as Springfield moves on.
Garrett Nussmeier’s choice to stay at LSU adds a layer of intrigue to the upcoming season. How he leads the Tigers without his trusted running backs will undoubtedly be a focal point as LSU aims for a successful campaign.