Former LSU Coach Expresses Concerns Over Brian Kelly’s Future Despite Garrett Nussmeier’s Return
In the ever-competitive world of college football, the pressure to perform is relentless, and LSU Tigers head coach Brian Kelly is acutely aware of this reality. Despite securing the return of quarterback Garrett Nussmeier for the 2025 season, a former LSU coach has expressed reservations about Kelly’s future in Baton Rouge. This sentiment underscores the high expectations and scrutiny that accompany coaching at a premier program like LSU.
Garrett Nussmeier, a Louisiana native and the son of former NFL quarterback Doug Nussmeier, has shown promise during his tenure at LSU. In the 2024 season, he threw for 3,739 yards, 26 touchdowns, and 11 interceptions, leading the Tigers to an 8-4 record. Notably, he was named MVP in both the ReliaQuest Bowl and the Texas Bowl, showcasing his potential as a future NFL prospect .
Despite these individual accolades, LSU’s overall performance under Kelly has been a topic of discussion. While the Tigers have secured a 29-10 record over Kelly’s first three seasons, the program has yet to make a College Football Playoff appearance or secure an SEC Championship. This lack of postseason success has led to increased scrutiny from fans and analysts alike .
The concerns raised by the former LSU coach highlight the challenges Kelly faces in meeting the lofty expectations set by the program’s history. LSU has a rich tradition of success, with previous head coaches leading the team to national championships. The absence of similar achievements under Kelly has intensified the pressure on his tenure.
Furthermore, the overreliance on Nussmeier has been a point of contention. In the 2024 season, Nussmeier was responsible for 72.7% of LSU’s offensive plays, a figure that surpasses that of many other quarterbacks in the nation. This heavy dependence on a single player raises questions about the team’s overall depth and balance .
Despite these challenges, Kelly remains steadfast in his belief in Nussmeier’s abilities. He has consistently expressed confidence in Nussmeier as the starting quarterback, emphasizing the importance of continued development and support from the coaching staff .
Looking ahead, Kelly has taken steps to ensure the program’s future success. The addition of quarterback Michael Van Buren Jr. from the transfer portal provides a promising prospect for the post-Nussmeier era. Van Buren’s arrival signals a proactive approach to succession planning, aiming to maintain LSU’s competitive edge in the coming seasons .
In conclusion, while Garrett Nussmeier’s return offers a sense of continuity and potential for LSU’s offense, the overarching concerns about Brian Kelly’s future reflect the high standards expected at a program of LSU’s caliber. The upcoming 2025 season will be pivotal in determining whether Kelly can navigate these challenges and lead the Tigers back to national prominence.
