BATON ROUGE, UK – April 12, 2025 – The LSU Tigers football program is looking increasingly strong heading into the 2025 season, particularly within their quarterback room. The return of veteran signal-caller Garrett Nussmeier, coupled with the addition of transfer Michael Van Buren and the looming presence of five-star recruit Bryce Underwood, positions the team with both experience and exciting potential for the future.
Garrett Nussmeier, entering his second year as the presumed starter, brings a wealth of experience to the Tigers’ offense. After a solid 2024 campaign, Nussmeier is expected to lead the team with his arm talent and understanding of the offensive scheme. Offensive coordinator Joe Sloan has emphasized the need for Nussmeier to utilize his mobility more in the upcoming season, adding another dimension to his game.
Adding to the depth and competition is Michael Van Buren, a sophomore transfer from Mississippi State. Van Buren gained valuable SEC experience in his freshman year, starting eight games for the Bulldogs. He showcased his dual-threat capabilities, throwing for 1,886 yards and 11 touchdowns while also rushing for five scores. His arrival provides a capable backup with significant playing time under his belt and the potential to push Nussmeier for the starting role.
While the present looks promising with Nussmeier and Van Buren, the future is equally bright with the highly touted Bryce Underwood waiting in the wings. Underwood, a consensus five-star recruit in the 2025 class, was initially committed to LSU before a late flip to Michigan. Although he won’t be on campus this year, his talent and potential remain a significant talking point for the program’s long-term outlook.
The quarterback room’s current composition offers LSU a blend of proven leadership in Nussmeier, a battle-tested backup in Van Buren, and a future star in Underwood. This depth provides security and competition, crucial elements for a team aiming for SEC contention and a spot in the College Football Playoff.
The development of Van Buren throughout spring practice has been a positive sign for the coaching staff. His quick adaptation to the LSU system and his arm talent have impressed Sloan, indicating a bright future for the sophomore. While missing out on Underwood was initially a setback, the emergence of Van Buren has softened the blow and provided a strong alternative.
As the 2025 season approaches, the quarterback position appears to be a strength for the LSU Tigers. The combination of Nussmeier’s experience, Van Buren’s talent and SEC exposure, and the future potential of Underwood creates a formidable group that should serve the program well both in the present and the years to come. The competition and depth within the quarterback room will undoubtedly be a key factor in LSU’s pursuit of s
uccess.
