College Football Playoff Impact: Players Who Stuck Around

Now that the transfer portal and NFL Draft have come and gone, ESPN's Heather Dinich named several key players who stuck around with their respective teams that will have a key impact in making the College Football playoff.

At the top of her list was LSU quarterback Garrett Nussmeier.

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1. Garrett Nussmeier, QB, LSU
The decision: Forgo the 2025 NFL draft

What his return means: Nussmeier, a fifth-year senior, and offensive coordinator Joe Sloan are entering their second season together and aiming to improve upon a stellar debut, which will help the Tigers contend for the SEC title. Nussmeier threw for 4,052 passing yards last year, 29 touchdowns and 12 interceptions. Even if LSU can't win the league, Nussmeier's return can help the Tigers earn an at-large CFP bid -- especially if he makes a similar jump to his predecessors, Joe Burrow and Jayden Daniels, who both won the Heisman Trophy in their second seasons in Baton Rouge. Nussmeier's dad, Doug, will be nearby as the Saints' offensive coordinator after winning a Super Bowl as the Eagles' quarterbacks coach. With four new starters on the Tigers' offensive line, there's going to be an adjustment period, but if the "Nuss Bus" gets the time he needs, this should be a breakout season and his draft stock will rise with LSU's playoff chances.

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