Garrett Nussmeier assesses the dynamic within LSU's quarterback room
The LSU quarterback room is one of the most stable in the SEC. With Jayden Daniels and Garrett Nussmeier both back, there’s plenty of continuity heading into Brian Kelly’s second season as head coach.
It’s also creating some good vibes in the room, according to Nussmeier.
Daniels has shown his ability to be a good leader, and Nussmeier reaffirmed that in his media availability this week. As a result, the level of play is even higher for the LSU quarterbacks.
“He’s done a great job leading, and we all push each other,” Nussmeier said. “There’s no time to slip up. We’re always competing. We’re always pushing each other to be the best that we can be. I think it’s been good. There’s a good dynamic in the room.”
At SEC Media Days, Daniels talked about the need to be a leader to help with four-star quarterback Rickie Collins’ development. Collins arrived at LSU as the No. 17-ranked quarterback in the nation from the 2023 cycle, according to the On3 Industry Ranking, a weighted average that utilizes all four major recruiting media companies.
Daniels took the freshman under his wing during summer workouts and opened up about their bond while meeting with reporters in Nashville.
“Not just us but Rickie Collins? I treat him like my little brother,” Daniels said. “Just seeing him be able to grow day in and day out. Coming in as a true freshman. Trying to just learn how to live on his own, even though he’s from Baton Rouge, but it’s different living on your own. Just how to maneuver and how to treat things professionally? (It’s) how tight we are.”
From Nussmeier’s perspective, Collins is adjusting to LSU and the college game well.
“Rickie’s done a great job since he’s got here,” Nussmeier said. “He’s learning, he’s growing. He’s doing really well.”
With Daniels and Nussmeier back, the Tigers have a solid foundation in place to help with Collins’ development. That’s why Kelly spoke highly of the LSU quarterback room earlier this week. He also noted the three QBs do a good job of pushing each other to get better.
“Rickie’s got to continue to develop because kind of what you said, when you only have three quarterbacks on scholarship, that third quarterback is so crucial for you in its development,” Kelly said. “So, I’d say that I’m really pleased with the development of Daniels and Nussmeier and Rickie is kind of — we’re really pushing him hard to continue his trajectory because when you have just three, he’s in the mix, right? I mean, so these next five days are going to be really big for him.