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Mark Ingram Names College Football Powerhouse That's the 'Real Deal'

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Nate Lunak | Last updated Sep 5, 2025 11:00 AM ET

In his three years with the Alabama Crimson Tide, former running back Mark Ingram II achieved tremendous success. In 2009, he brought home the Heisman Trophy on the way to winning the national championship.

He has firsthand experience when it comes to what a national championship-contending team looks like, and one team has caught his eye early in the 2025 season.

In a video posted to "The Triple Option," Ingram had high praise for the LSU Tigers, attributing much of their success to quarterback Garrett Nussmeier.

“LSU is looking real deal right now, and it’s a lot to do with their quarterback, the Nuss,” Ingram said.

The Tigers did open the season on a high note, taking down the No. 4 Clemson Tigers 17-10, showing dominance on both offense and defense.

That helped head coach Brian Kelly's team jump six spots in the AP Top 25 poll. The Tigers sit at No. 3, and even received three first-place votes.

Ingram's praise for Nussmeier is warranted, as he completed 28 of 38 passes for 232 yards, one touchdown, no interceptions and an 82.8 quarterback rating.

Against a Clemson defense that features three ESPN preseason All-Americans, he showed an ability to stay poised under pressure and make smart decisions.

However, it's far from the only big test LSU will face by the end of the regular season, with five more ranked foes still on the schedule.

Week 2, though, should be easy. LSU hosts the Louisiana Tech Bulldogs, with ESPN BET placing the Tigers as 37.5-point favorites.

The matchup provides an opportunity for Nussmeier to continue on his path as a Heisman Trophy contender before getting into conference play.

LSU's first SEC matchup is at home against the No. 13 Florida Gators in Week 3, where Ingram's "real deal" claim will be tested.

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

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