This is shaping up to be one of the best opening weekends in college football history, with several 2026 NFL Draft prospects facing major tests. Miami quarterback Carson Beck will be challenged by a stout Notre Dame defense, while Caleb Downs looks to slow down Texas’ explosive offense. But the prospect scouts may be most intrigued by is LSU quarterback Garrett Nussmeier.
Why scouts are watching Nussmeier
There are several reasons why all eyes will be on Nussmeier as he faces off against the fourth-ranked Clemson Tigers. The first is to see if he can build on last year, when he became the most prolific first-year starting quarterback in LSU history, setting program records for passing yards, completions, attempts, touchdowns, and total offense. That is a tough bar to clear, and he still has areas to improve. He must take better care of the football after throwing 12 interceptions last season, and he needs to show he can consistently hit the deep ball.
Another reason scouts will be locked in is the matchup itself. Clemson features one of the top five defenses in college football, led by three defenders who could all be top-15 picks: defensive end T.J. Parker, defensive tackle Peter Woods, and cornerback Avieon Terrell. In total, seven Tiger defenders carry draftable grades, making this one of the most difficult tests Nussmeier will face all year.
Adding intrigue are the new weapons at his disposal. LSU reloaded at wide receiver, highlighted by Nic Anderson, who still carries a day three grade despite missing most of last season, and Barion Brown, whose elite speed should open up more vertical opportunities.
If Nussmeier can show he is up to the challenge against Clemson’s defense, he will take a major step toward cementing himself as a top-five pick. He could also emerge as a prime option for a quarterback-needy team like the New Orleans Saints, who have one of the bleakest quarterback situations in recent NFL history.