Can Garrett Nussmeier Dominate Clemson? LSU’s QB Set to Shock Fans with Unexpected Stats

I expect LSU’s run game to be improved. Ideally, Nussmeier doesn’t have to throw 45 passes. With a more balanced attack, Nussmeier won’t light up the stat sheet, but it’ll still be a productive day at the office. I have Nussmeier passing for 288 yards in week one.

Nussmeier isn’t Jayden Daniels, but he’s athletic enough to pick up a first down or two on the ground. If Nussmeier sees room to take off, he will. It’s been an emphasis for improvement throughout the offseason.LSU will still play an aggressive brand of offense. Nussmeier will connect for his fair share of big plays, but with the risks come the occasional interception. Clemson has enough ball hawks in the secondary to make Nussmeier pay once on Saturday.I think Nussmeier finds the end zone three times — twice through the air and once on the ground. Nussmeier is expected to make more of an impact with his legs in 2025, especially in the red zone.

It won’t be easy for LSU, but Nussmeier is a fifth-year quarterback familiar with the big moment. A win on Saturday, and he’ll cement his status as one of the best QBs in the country and have LSU on a path to the College Football Playoff.Here’s a look at Nussmeier’s projected stat line for the week one showdown vs. the Clemson Tigers.

288 passing yards

LSU football quarterback Garrett Nussmeier can win the Heisman Trophy and be the No. 1 overall pick with a good 2025 campaign, but week one provides a tough test as LSU travels to Clemson.

66% completion rate

Clemson leads the nation in returning production, which includes a handful of defensive stars like Peter Woods, TJ Parker, and Aveion Terrell. All three players are projected to be first-round picks in the 2026 NFL Draft.

Three touchdowns (2 passing, 1 rushing)

Nussmeier completed 64% of his passes last year. I think he comes in around that mark again on Saturday. Clemson’s cornerbacks are good and won’t allow easy completions, but Nussmeier will fit the ball into tight windows with an improved wide receiver core.

1 interception

Nussmeier closed the 2024 season on a high note. That’s the version of Nussmeier that LSU fans expect to see throughout 2025.

22 rushing yards

Garrett Nussmeier stands on the brink of something huge. The LSU quarterback, a seasoned fifth-year pro, isn’t just aiming to light up the scoreboard—he’s got his sights set on the Heisman Trophy and the coveted No. 1 overall NFL Draft pick. But before dreams turn real, there’s that daunting road trip to Clemson in week one, a clash that’ll test every bit of his skill and grit. Clemson’s defense isn’t just good—it’s loaded, featuring standout defenders like Peter Woods, TJ Parker, and Aveion Terrell, all considered future first-round draft picks. It’s a battleground where LSU’s improved running game and Nussmeier’s laser-sharp accuracy—expected to hover around a 66% completion rate—will be put to the ultimate test. Toss in some touchdowns, a dash of rushing yards, and the inevitable interception, and you’ve got a recipe for a high-stakes showdown that could set LSU’s playoff path ablaze. Ready to dive deeper? LEARN MORE