Garrett Nussmeier Addresses LSU's Season-Opening Struggles Before Week 1 Matchup vs. Clemson

With LSU adding a wave of talent through the transfer portal – including seven players across the offensive and defensive lines, and new receiving targets in Barion Brown, Nic Anderson, and Destyn Hill – Garrett Nussmeier's second season as the Tigers' starting quarterback is poised to be just as impressive as the first.

LSU will also be bringing back last year's leading target, Aaron Anderson, for another season in Death Valley.

In an interview with Pete Nakos of On3 Sports, Nussmeier addressed LSU's inability to capture a season-opening win in recent years.

"It’s still a little early to be scouting and things like that. I know our coaches have. For us as a team, it’s more of having a 1-0 mindset. Not just about who we’re playing, but we’re preparing to win the first football game, no matter who we’re playing," Nussmeier said as he prepares for the start of his fifth season at LSU.

He also supported head coach Brian Kelly, as the pressure is on him to deliver this season with the roster he has, saying, "I fully believe in what he teaches and what he preaches. He does an unbelievable job with us. It’ll come to light this year. I can’t wait for people to see that.”

Nussmeier decided to forgo the 2025 NFL Draft and come back for another season with LSU, even after he was expected to be a top pick in his position.

Now, he will try to live up to the hype and perform even better than the 4,042 passing yards, 29 touchdowns, and 12 interception season he had in 2024 in pursuit to LSU's first College Football Playoff berth since 2019.