In just over a week, a new era of Tiger football will commence. Over the past two seasons, Jayden Daniels has assumed control of the offense, and it’s safe to say he did an excellent job in his short time in Baton Rouge. Nevertheless, the time has come for LSU quarterback Garrett Nussmeier to step into the spotlight, making his inaugural start in the ReliaQuest Bowl against Wisconsin.
LSU quarterback Garrett Nussmeier preparing for his first career start
Tiger fans have been waiting for this moment for what feels like forever. Since joining the program as a part of the class of 2021, LSU quarterback Garrett Nussmeier has dazzled with his cannon for an arm.
However, for one reason or another, he hasn’t exactly gotten his opportunity to shine – at least until now. As Coach Brian Kelly readies his team for the upcoming New Year’s Day ReliaQuest Bowl clash against Wisconsin, Nussmeier finds himself in unfamiliar territory.
The offense is his and he’ll likely be entrusted with the reigns heading into 2024. Despite the unfamiliarity of the situation, Nussmeier does not seem daunted by the challenge. In fact, he’s been waiting for it and sounds thrilled to be in this position.
“It’s been awesome,” the new starting LSU quarterback said on Thursday when speaking with the media. “I wouldn’t say it’s been different in my preparation. I felt like I tried to play my role as best I could whenever it was my opportunity to start and be ready and prepare like I was the starter. With that being said, it’s way different. Getting the reps and getting to work through everything and expecting to play, knowing I’m going to play – it’s exciting.”
As things stand, the redshirt sophomore has been taking reps with the starters, meaning he’s consistently throwing the ball to star wide receivers Malik Nabers and Brian Thomas Jr.
Notably, these are passing connections that are nothing new for the Lake Charles, LA, native. All three made their way to Baton Rouge as a part of the class of 2021, so this first career start vs. Wisconsin in the ReliaQuest Bowl has been a long time coming for all parties involved.
Looking to earn a 10th win
Achieving 10 wins in a single season is an impressive accomplishment in its own right. However, attaining two consecutive 10-win seasons in the first two years with a program is a rarity.
Heading into New Year’s Day this year, coach Brian Kelly has the chance to do exactly that after coming away with a 10-4 record in his first season in Baton Rouge.
While it won’t be easy to achieve, LSU quarterback Garrett Nussmeier is well aware of the goal and plans on doing everything he can to make it happen for his team. Still, he’s not letting it consume him, as the team has big goals heading into year three under coach Kelly.
“I think it’s important,” the third-year quarterback said when asked about the possibility of a 10th win. “I think it’s one of our goals. I think it’s big for our program. Like I said, for us as a team, as a program, we’ve been focused on the little things. You can’t look at overall records. That can’t be your goal. It’s everyday doing things right.”
Pressure is often a concern for new starting quarterbacks in college football. Still, Nussmeier isn’t your typical backup. He’s played in an SEC Championship game. He’s played in close games late. He even earned substantial playing time in last year’s bowl game, contributing to LSU’s 10th win in 2022-23.
Now, he’s eager to get on the field and show the country what he’s capable of heading into 2024.
“It’s gonna feel good, for sure. I’ve been waiting a long time for this. I’m really excited. I’m going to be focused on not getting caught up in the moment. This is what I love to do. I love to play the sport of football and I love representing this university. Getting the opportunity to do so is going to be fun, and I’m really looking forward to it, but my goal is to win the game and to play good. So that’s what I’m going to be focused on.”
LSU is set to face Wisconsin in the 2024 ReliaQuest Bowl on New Year’s Day at 11:00 a.m. CST. The game will be held at Raymond James Stadium in Tampa, Florida, and will be broadcast live on ESPN2.
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