When LSU rolls into Memorial Stadium Saturday, Clemson fans will see a quarterback who’s not short on experience or production. Senior Garrett Nussmeier enters his second season as the Tigers’ starter, coming off a 2024 campaign that saw him rack up 4,052 passing yards, 29 touchdowns, and 12 interceptions—making him one of the SEC’s top returning quarterbacks.
But while the numbers are impressive, LSU coach Brian Kelly made it clear during fall camp that the next step for his quarterback is all about consistency and decision-making—especially in a high-pressure opener like the one awaiting in Death Valley.
“We've documented some of the things that he needs to be better at. That is, his worst play needs to be zero,” Kelly told the media as camp opened. “We can live with zero. What we can’t live with is, you know, catastrophic mistakes. I think you have to live through that to know what your limits are, right? So I think he knows what those limits are.”
A Quarterback With Tools—and Room to Grow
Nussmeier’s skill set extends beyond just his arm. Kelly highlighted the junior’s mobility and athleticism, noting, “Physically, he's taking care of his body. He ran 21.4 miles per hour… he can run. So I think he clearly understands that when the opportunity arises, he can take off and be an effective runner. So I think that's the growth.”
What Clemson fans should expect: an LSU offense that won’t hesitate to move the pocket or let Nussmeier scramble for extra yards if coverage holds up downfield. His numbers don’t show that he can be a threat, but our expectations are that the Bayou Bengals strategically utilize him, especially early in the game, in an attempt to get Tom Allen’s defense playing off schedule.
Decision-Making in the Spotlight
Despite his experience, Kelly continues to stress the importance of limiting negative plays and trusting the system, especially against a defense like Clemson’s. “In terms of managing a bad play and making it zero—I think that's experience,” Kelly said. “On-time throws, never turn down a profit. If there’s a check down, check it down. It doesn't have to always be down the field.”
For Clemson’s defense, this means LSU’s offense could test the Tigers’ ability to tackle in space and stay disciplined—Nussmeier will look for big plays, but he’s being coached to take what’s available and avoid unnecessary risks.
Supporting Cast: Depth at Receiver
LSU enters 2025 with notable turnover, especially with nearly half the roster new via transfers, redshirts, and freshmen. However, the wide receiver group is deep and versatile—a fact Kelly repeatedly emphasized. If Nussmeier gets time to throw, expect a spread attack with plenty of options, challenging a Clemson secondary that will need to be ready from the jump.
The Bottom Line
For Clemson fans, Nussmeier represents a blend of proven production and ongoing growth. He has the arm talent and athleticism to challenge any defense—but the key question, per his own head coach, is whether he can avoid the big mistake in a hostile environment. How he handles the pressure at Memorial Stadium may go a long way in determining the outcome of this early-season heavyweight clash.
As the countdown to kickoff continues, keep an eye on No. 18 in purple and gold as Nussmeier was awarded the No. 18 jersey for the 2025 season, becoming the first quarterback to wear it since Matt Mauck in 2003, when he led the Tigers to a national championship. LSU’s offense has plenty of firepower—but its fate against Clemson could come down to the decisions and poise of a veteran version of Nussmeier.
