Garrett Nussmeier receives more mixed reviews, and Harold Perkins finally hits upside highlight LSU Hot Takes heading into 2025 season

The LSU Tigers enter a huge year under head coach Brian Kelly. This fourth season appears like it could be a massive one for Coach Kelly, especially after they attacked the transfer portal so aggressively this offseason. They clearly are pulling out all of the stops.  While there is a lot to be excited about, […]

Ryan Roberts National College Football Writer
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Nov 4, 2023; Tuscaloosa, Alabama, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide quarterback Jalen Milroe (4) scrambles up the field against LSU Tigers linebacker Harold Perkins Jr. (4) during the second half at Bryant-Denny Stadium. Alabama Crimson Tide defeated the LSU Tigers 42-28.
Mandatory Credit: John David Mercer-Imagn Images

The LSU Tigers enter a huge year under head coach Brian Kelly. This fourth season appears like it could be a massive one for Coach Kelly, especially after they attacked the transfer portal so aggressively this offseason. They clearly are pulling out all of the stops. 

While there is a lot to be excited about, there are also some major question marks. From both the positive and negative perspective, there will also be some surprises. Here are some Hot Takes for the LSU team in 2025, some being spicier than others. 

Garrett Nussmeier mixed reviews 

Nussmeier has been a very controversial quarterback so far during his LSU career. The talent is definitely there as a pure thrower, showing some impressive touch and natural arm talent. A bit of a statuesque passer, Nussmeier has struggled against pressure, and has also had some issues with turnovers in 2024. If he is able to cut down on those 15 total turnovers, and make a jump, Nussmeier has a chance to lead the Tigers to be a big season. With an offensive line with a ton of turnover, there are some doubts for just how clean Nussmeier will be this season. 

Harold Perkins hits upside 

It has been a bizarre career for Perkins so far, who came to Baton Rouge as a five-star recruit with some high expectations. He showcased that talent early and often, having dominant moments rushing off the edge early in his career. At just around 6-0 and 220 pounds, Perkins has tried to find a home at linebacker the last two seasons, and there has been some mixed results. He’s coming off of an injury plagued 2024 season, but I expect Perkins to end his LSU career with a bang this season. 

Mansoor Delane earns All-American status 

After contemplating entering the 2025 NFL Draft, Delane instead opted to return to college for one more season. Instead of continuing to play for Virginia Tech for that final year, he will be suiting up for LSU in 2025. Delane is coming off of an impressive junior campaign where he collected 54 total tackles, four interceptions, and seven pass breakups. He has some impressive movement skills, and is also scheme diverse. With Delane now playing in the SEC, he should get the national attention that he deserves.