A.J. McCarron Didn’t Hesitate to Name the Best QB in the Country

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Matt De Lima | Last updated Jul 30, 2025 10:47 AM ET

With the 2025 college football season fast approaching, quarterback debates are heating up across every major conference. From returning Heisman candidates to breakout stars in waiting, the pool is deep, and opinions are even deeper.

But one voice that carries weight in the SEC and beyond belongs to former Alabama Crimson Tide star A.J. McCarron, the two-time national champion and former NFL quarterback.

During the latest episode of "The Dynasty," McCarron explained to co-hosts Trent Richardson and Chris Stewart why he didn’t hedge when asked to rank the country’s top signal-callers.

He went straight to Baton Rouge with a player who has waited his turn, refined his skill set and is now in full control of one of the most dynamic offenses in the country.

Why A.J. McCarron Believes Garrett Nussmeier is College Football’s Top Quarterback

“I think the best quarterback in the country, not only the SEC, at No. 1 I have [LSU’s] Garrett Nussmeier,” McCarron said. “Just unbelievable talent. I think he's really good. ... Kid’s an absolute gamer.”

The former Alabama standout didn’t base the claim on one game or highlight. His belief stems from years of watching Nussmeier grow, including personal familiarity with the Nussmeier family and the quarterback’s development arc.

After backing up Jayden Daniels in 2023, Nussmeier emerged last season with 4,052 passing yards, 29 touchdowns and 12 interceptions while completing over 64 percent of his throws.

His arm strength and anticipation stood out, along with notable strides in pocket control and play progression. Scouting reports regularly cite Nussmeier’s fluid mechanics, toughness under pressure and leadership in LSU’s up-tempo scheme.

How Far Can LSU Go with Nussmeier? Championship Potential in Baton Rouge

Now entering 2025 with a full season's worth of starting experience, Nussmeier inherits a loaded offense and a program with championship expectations.

Wideouts Nic Anderson, Barion Brown and Aaron Anderson headline a pass-catching unit built for vertical pressure. Offensive coordinator Joe Sloan is known for blending spread concepts with NFL route trees, giving Nussmeier the platform to showcase his full toolkit.

If Nussmeier sustains his current efficiency while expanding his downfield range, LSU will contend not just for the SEC but a return to the College Football Playoff.

LSU opens the season by visiting the Clemson Tigers at 7:30 p.m. ET Aug. 30, a perfect early test to measure Nussmeier against national expectations and validate McCarron’s bold praise.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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