Garrett Nussmeier opens up on decision to return to LSU

When Jayden Daniels announced his return to LSU, backup quarterback Garrett Nussmeier could have easily hopped into the NCAA transfer portal. He would have been a popular man, with plenty of teams fighting it out for his services. Flashes have been shown by Nussmeier and he possesses three years of eligibility.

Instead, Nussmeier decided to return to Baton Rouge. Brian Kelly has stated Daniels will continue as the Tigers’ starter but right now, there are more important things to Nussmeier. The state of Louisiana is considered is what he considers home and playing for LSU is an honor.

“I don’t think it was that hard of a decision for me,” Nussmeier said. “This is where I want to be. My roots are in this state, this is my home. It means something to me to represent LSU and represent this state and these fans.

“Also, with my teammates and coaches, I’ve learned to build relationships with the new staff and I have a lot of love for them. And with my teammates, I wanted to finish what we started.”

Nussmeier was recruited by the old LSU staff, headlined by head coach Ed Orgeron. This will be Year Two working alongside Kelly and offensive coordinator Mike Denbrock. A relationship needed to be built but Nussmeier seemingly trusts their vision for his future.

The time will come for Nussmeier. Whether Daniels suffers an injury, the LSU offense needs a spark, or he wins the starting job ahead of the 2024 season — Nussmeier will get his chance. He still has work to do in order to accomplish long-term goals, though.

“I think what I want to get out of this year is the same of what I want to get out of any year,” Nussmeier said. “It’s just continuing to get better, never accepting of what I am. I’m always in competition with what I have the potential to be. Not with what I am now. I think that’s the mindset that I’ve taken.”

Nussmeier has played in 11 games throughout his college career, with seven of them coming during the 2022 season. In total, he has thrown for 1,129 yards, seven touchdowns, and seven interceptions. However, the SEC Championship game against Georgia — despite being mop-up duty — saw 294 yards, two touchdowns, and a couple of eye-popping throws.

Potentially a sign of things to come from the quarterback once Kelly and Denbrock bring him to center stage.