Garrett Nussmeier entered the 2025 season as one of the most anticipated quarterbacks in college football, but injuries have shaped his year from start to finish. LSU named him the full-time starter with expectations of a breakout season, yet he has battled multiple physical setbacks that have limited his mobility and consistency.
The most serious issue has been a lingering torso and abdominal injury that he first suffered in fall camp. It never fully healed, and every hit during the season made it harder for him to stay on the field or move confidently in the pocket.
This week, the big question is whether he will be available for Saturday’s matchup against Western Kentucky. Based on recent updates, his status leans toward doubtful. The abdominal injury has not improved, and LSU’s staff appears hesitant to push him unless he is fully cleared.
Practices this week have not shown meaningful progress, and the coaching staff has prepared backup Michael Van Buren to start if needed. With Nussmeier still limited, LSU is bracing for the possibility that he will not suit up, especially with long-term health in mind.
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The timing makes the situation even more emotional. If he cannot play, it would be a disappointing moment for a quarterback who has given four seasons to the program and fought to secure the starting role.
His chances of playing are not zero, but everything points to LSU prioritizing caution. The staff understands the risk of aggravating the injury just one week before a tougher matchup. As of now, the reports suggest that the Tigers will likely hold him out unless he makes a sudden turnaround in the final walkthroughs.
Is Garrett Nussmeier’s College Career Over?
At the beginning of the season, Nussmeier was seen as someone capable of pushing LSU into playoff contention. But the early-camp torso injury changed everything. He never looked fully healthy, and the ongoing hits behind a shaky offensive line made every game a battle.
There were stretches when he appeared close to his best, but the physical limitations always returned. Each week brought more doubt about how long he could continue. Now, the timing of his injury raises a serious question: if he cannot play on senior night, does LSU risk sending him out against Oklahoma’s physical defense in the regular-season finale?
The answer may be no, which means this weekend could mark the quiet end of his LSU career. Nussmeier’s legacy at LSU remains strong. With 7,699 career passing yards, he ranks third in school history. He has contributed 52 touchdowns and thrown 24 interceptions across his four years.
His development, patience, and growth kept LSU competitive through multiple transitions. If he has taken his last snap, he leaves with a resume that places him among the program’s most productive quarterbacks.
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