Who Will Be LSU’s Quarterback in 2024? A Deep Dive into the Tigers’ Future at QB
As LSU prepares for the 2024 college football season, one of the biggest questions on fans’ minds is: Who will be LSU’s starting quarterback next season? The quarterback position is always crucial in shaping the direction of a college football program, and LSU has a rich history of elite signal-callers, from Joe Burrow to Matt Flynn and beyond. As the Tigers look ahead, the decision about their quarterback could define the course of their 2024 season.
With the departure of veteran players, the emergence of young talent, and the potential for transfer portal movement, the race for LSU’s next starting quarterback is shaping up to be an exciting storyline. Let’s dive into the factors that will determine who will be under center for the Tigers in 2024.
The Jayden Daniels Era: A Possible Return for Another Year
Jayden Daniels, the current starting quarterback for LSU, has been one of the most exciting players in college football over the past two seasons. In 2023, Daniels delivered an exceptional performance, leading LSU to several key victories and finishing as one of the top candidates for the Heisman Trophy. Daniels’ dual-threat ability—combining a strong arm with impressive running skills—has made him a nightmare for opposing defenses, and his leadership has been pivotal to LSU’s success.
As the season wound down, Daniels had many people questioning whether he would stay for another year or enter the NFL Draft. As a redshirt senior in 2024, Daniels would have the option to return for one more season, using his final year of eligibility to further improve his draft stock or compete for a national championship.
Reasons Jayden Daniels May Return
- NFL Draft Stock: Daniels’ draft stock is undeniably high after his 2023 performance, but some analysts believe that with another season of refinement, particularly in the passing game, he could be a top pick in the upcoming NFL Draft. Returning for another year would give him the chance to work under LSU’s coaching staff and potentially fine-tune aspects of his game.
- A Chance at a National Championship: LSU is positioned well as a national contender, and with Daniels as the leader, the Tigers could make a deep run in 2024. Returning for another year could give Daniels a shot at competing for a College Football Playoff berth and, potentially, a national title.
- Consistency and Familiarity: For Daniels, returning to LSU would provide an opportunity for consistency in the offense and the chance to build on the successes of the previous two seasons. With offensive coordinator Mike Denbrock continuing to develop the system, Daniels could further cement his legacy in Baton Rouge.
Reasons Daniels May Leave
- NFL Readiness: After a highly successful season in 2023, Daniels may feel that he is ready for the NFL. If his draft projections indicate that he will be selected early, he might choose to leave LSU and capitalize on the opportunity.
- Time to Transition to the Next Generation: Daniels’ departure could also signal a new era in LSU football. After two years at LSU, he may feel it is the right time to hand over the reins to a younger quarterback, allowing the Tigers to build for the future.
Garrett Nussmeier: The Young Gun Waiting in the Wings
Should Jayden Daniels decide to move on to the NFL, LSU would look to Garrett Nussmeier as the potential next leader of the offense. Nussmeier, who has served as the backup quarterback during Daniels’ tenure, has shown flashes of brilliance in his limited playing time.
Nussmeier’s potential as a starting quarterback is well known among LSU fans. The sophomore quarterback has an elite arm, great touch on deep throws, and the ability to make plays in high-pressure situations. In 2023, Nussmeier was thrust into action in several key moments, most notably in the SEC Championship Game against Georgia, where he showed composure and skill in his time on the field.
Nussmeier’s Strengths
- Arm Strength: One of Nussmeier’s most notable traits is his incredible arm strength. He can make all the throws required of an SEC quarterback, from deep bombs to threading tight throws into tight windows.
- Poise Under Pressure: Nussmeier has shown the ability to stay calm under pressure, a key trait for any quarterback, especially one taking over a high-profile program like LSU. In the 2023 season, he demonstrated the mental fortitude needed to step in and compete when Daniels was sidelined.
- Youth and Potential: At just 19 years old, Nussmeier has plenty of time to develop further. If he is named the starter in 2024, Nussmeier would bring an exciting, dynamic element to the offense and likely would be LSU’s quarterback for years to come.
Challenges for Nussmeier
- Inexperience: While Nussmeier has shown promise, he still lacks the full-game experience that Daniels possesses. His ability to handle the pressure of being the starting quarterback for a national contender remains to be fully tested.
- Competition for the Starting Job: Should Daniels leave, Nussmeier will face stiff competition, including potential transfers or incoming recruits. LSU’s staff would need to assess whether Nussmeier is ready to lead the team in a way that matches the program’s high expectations.
Potential Transfer Portal Options
The transfer portal is a critical factor in college football recruiting, and LSU could look outside the program to add depth or even find their next starter. If Daniels departs for the NFL and Nussmeier isn’t quite ready for the job, LSU may target a proven quarterback through the portal.
Several quarterbacks across the nation will likely enter the portal, and LSU has the resources and appeal to attract top talent. The question will be whether LSU wants to go with a veteran player or continue developing a younger option.
Freshman Quarterbacks: The Future of LSU Football
While the quarterback battle for 2024 will likely center on Daniels and Nussmeier, LSU has also secured several top quarterback recruits who will enter the program in the coming years. Rickie Collins, a four-star quarterback from Baton Rouge, is one of the promising young quarterbacks who could compete for the job in future seasons.
However, it is unlikely that a true freshman will start for LSU in 2024 unless there is an injury or a major shake-up in the competition. For now, it appears that Daniels and Nussmeier are the most likely options for the 2024 season, with any incoming freshman quarterback needing to acclimate to the system first before competing for the starting job.
What Will Happen at LSU in 2024?
Ultimately, the decision about LSU’s quarterback in 2024 rests with Jayden Daniels. If he returns for his senior season, he will likely retain his starting job and continue to build on his legacy as one of LSU’s all-time great quarterbacks. If Daniels departs for the NFL, Garrett Nussmeier will have the chance to step into the spotlight and potentially take LSU to new heights.
Fans of LSU football can expect an exciting offseason, as the quarterback battle and the decision of Jayden Daniels will undoubtedly influence the direction of the Tigers for 2024. As of now, the competition is wide open, and LSU fans should be ready for what promises to be a thrilling period of change and growth for the Tigers’ quarterback position.
Conclusion: An Exciting Future for LSU’s Quarterback Position
As the 2024 season approaches, LSU fans are left to speculate who will lead the Tigers at quarterback. With the possibility of Jayden Daniels returning to build on his successful 2023 campaign or Garrett Nussmeier taking over as the next great quarterback for LSU, there is no shortage of excitement. The addition of young talent and potential transfers only adds to the uncertainty, but also the potential for success.
Regardless of who earns the starting role, LSU’s future at quarterback looks bright. With a talented roster, an excellent coaching staff, and a winning culture, LSU is poised to continue its legacy of excellence at the quarterback position for years to come. Keep an eye on this battle as the offseason progresses, and get ready for an exciting season ahead in Baton Rouge.
