LSU Football: The Potential of Dual-Threat Packages to Complement Garrett Nussmeier

The game of football is evolving at an impressive pace, and with that comes a change in offensive strategies and player roles. The traditional pocket-passer quarterback is no longer the exclusive standard, especially at elite programs like LSU. Instead, dual-threat quarterbacks—players who can hurt defenses both through the air and on the ground—are becoming more prominent in the college football landscape. LSU, under Brian Kelly, has made it a point to explore ways to diversify its offensive playbook, including the possibility of installing specific packages for a dual-threat quarterback to complement Garrett Nussmeier.

With the 2025 season approaching, LSU is undergoing significant changes on offense, and the development of their quarterback position remains a focal point. While Nussmeier, who is considered the starting quarterback for LSU, is a capable pocket passer, the coaching staff has begun to explore creative ways to incorporate dual-threat quarterbacks into their offensive scheme. This is not about changing Nussmeier’s role but about adding layers to the offense that will make the Tigers’ attack more difficult to defend.

This strategic decision could make LSU a more unpredictable, multifaceted team that can keep opposing defenses on their heels. As we delve into this potential move, we’ll explore what it could mean for the future of LSU football, the role of Nussmeier, and the impact of having a dual-threat quarterback package in the playbook.

Understanding Garrett Nussmeier’s Role at LSU

Before diving into the specifics of the dual-threat quarterback discussion, it is important to understand Garrett Nussmeier’s place within LSU’s offense. Nussmeier, a highly regarded quarterback from Lake Charles, Louisiana, has shown a lot of promise in his time with the Tigers. His arm strength, deep-ball accuracy, and ability to read defenses have made him the frontrunner for LSU’s starting quarterback position in 2025.

Nussmeier’s ability to play in a traditional pro-style offense is one of his defining characteristics. His mechanics, vision, and decision-making ability fit perfectly within a pocket-passing scheme. However, college football has increasingly moved toward dual-threat quarterbacks—players who can throw with precision but also keep defenses honest with their ability to scramble and make plays with their legs. While Nussmeier is not necessarily known for being a dual-threat, his flexibility and skill set make him an ideal candidate for a balanced offensive attack.

In terms of style, Nussmeier operates primarily as a pocket passer, though he has shown he can make plays outside of the pocket when needed. His performance during spring practices and in-game scenarios suggests that he has the tools to lead LSU’s offense but could also benefit from the versatility that a dual-threat quarterback package could bring. This opens the door for creative offensive schemes, especially when paired with a quarterback who can run effectively.

The Rise of Dual-Threat Quarterbacks in College Football

The trend toward dual-threat quarterbacks in college football has been growing steadily over the past decade. Programs like Oklahoma, Clemson, Alabama, and Ohio State have all embraced the idea of having a quarterback who can throw the ball with accuracy but also use their legs to create opportunities. Quarterbacks like Jalen Hurts, Kyler Murray, and Trevor Lawrence have not only been able to lead their respective teams with their arms but have also shown the ability to make defenses pay with their mobility. This dynamic versatility has become one of the most coveted traits in the quarterback position.

In the past, offenses were built around the philosophy of pocket passing, with quarterbacks staying in the pocket and reading defenses. But with the evolution of the game, mobile quarterbacks have introduced a new dimension, making the pocket passer’s job that much harder. This shift has been further driven by the rise of spread offenses, which have encouraged more up-tempo play and the use of quarterbacks as both passers and runners.

As of the 2025 season, many college programs, including LSU, are realizing that they must adapt to the changing landscape of college football. It’s not enough to simply have a quarterback who can execute a traditional passing offense. They must be able to keep defenses on their toes and give defensive coordinators headaches by throwing and running the ball in ways that challenge their schemes.

Why LSU Is Exploring Dual-Threat Packages

LSU has always been known for its strong defense and its ability to recruit and develop elite talent. Over the past few seasons, however, the offense has lagged behind in comparison to the rest of the SEC. Under Brian Kelly, the program has taken steps to revitalize its offense and make it more versatile. One of the ways the Tigers could achieve this is by introducing dual-threat quarterback packages alongside Nussmeier.

Incorporating a dual-threat element into the offense would not necessarily mean that Nussmeier would lose his job or be asked to run the ball more often. Instead, it would be about having multiple quarterbacks who can play to their strengths and keep opposing defenses guessing. Nussmeier would still be the primary quarterback, but there would be times when a more mobile, dual-threat option could take the field to execute specific plays or situations.

A New Dimension to the Offense

One of the main reasons LSU is exploring dual-threat packages is to add a new dimension to their offense. The threat of a running quarterback forces defenses to account for another element. A dual-threat quarterback doesn’t just drop back and look to pass; they can keep defenses honest by taking off with the ball and making plays on the ground. This creates a more dynamic offensive playbook, where LSU can shift between traditional passing sets and spread option looks.

In this type of system, LSU could potentially utilize a quarterback who excels at reading the defense, making quick decisions, and gaining yards on the ground when passing lanes are not available. Mobile quarterbacks are more likely to extend plays when the pocket breaks down, leading to additional time for receivers to get open. The dynamic nature of a dual-threat quarterback is something defenses find difficult to game-plan for, making LSU’s offense much harder to predict.

Keeping Defenses Off Balance

Another key reason for introducing dual-threat quarterback packages is to keep opposing defenses off balance. The SEC is home to some of the most ferocious defenses in college football, and if LSU is to contend for titles, it will need to keep defenses on their toes. With a dual-threat quarterback in the fold, LSU can add elements of zone reads, read options, and RPOs (run-pass options), all of which put pressure on defenders by forcing them to make split-second decisions.

For example, in a read option play, the quarterback can choose whether to hand the ball off to the running back or keep it and run himself based on the defense’s positioning. A dual-threat quarterback can make defenses pay if they focus too much on stopping the run or become too passive in covering the pass. This unpredictability can be invaluable, especially in high-stakes games where the margin of error is thin.

Potential Dual-Threat Quarterbacks to Complement Nussmeier

Now that we’ve established why LSU is exploring dual-threat quarterback packages, it’s important to look at the quarterbacks on the roster who could complement Garrett Nussmeier in this role. While Nussmeier will be the starting quarterback, having a second quarterback who can contribute in specific situations could be a key weapon for LSU.

Jayden Daniels, the current backup quarterback, is the most likely candidate to play a role in dual-threat packages. Daniels, who transferred to LSU from Arizona State, is an excellent runner with the ability to make plays with his legs. As a dual-threat quarterback, Daniels can add a significant dynamic to LSU’s offense, especially in short-yardage situations or when the team is looking to catch the defense off guard.

Daniels has already shown his ability to make plays both in the air and on the ground, and incorporating him into LSU’s offense could make the Tigers’ offense even more difficult to defend. His ability to throw accurately on the run and make plays with his feet could provide LSU with a powerful one-two punch at quarterback.

Additionally, freshman quarterbacks or other mobile players in the quarterback room could also be considered for specialized packages. Even though these players may not be expected to start, their skill set could be beneficial in certain game situations, particularly in games where LSU may need to break open a tight contest with a surprise element.

The Future of LSU Football with Dual-Threat Packages

As LSU prepares for the 2025 season, the potential integration of dual-threat packages will add a new layer of versatility and complexity to their offense. Brian Kelly and his staff are committed to building a program that can compete at the highest level in the SEC, and offensive innovation will be key to that success.

By pairing Garrett Nussmeier’s strong arm and traditional pocket-passing style with the mobile capabilities of a dual-threat quarterback, LSU will have the tools to keep opposing defenses guessing and be more unpredictable. This is just one example of how LSU’s offense is adapting to the changing landscape of college football. In a time when dual-threat quarterbacks are becoming the norm, LSU is positioning itself to be a part of the evolution.

In conclusion, as the 2025 season approaches, LSU’s offense is poised for an exciting transformation. Dual-threat quarterback packages could be one of the most intriguing aspects of LSU’s offensive strategy moving forward. With Garrett Nussmeier as the leader and a mobile dual-threat option ready to complement him, LSU has the potential to create an offense that will keep opposing defenses on edge throughout the season.