Former LSU quarterback Garrett Nussmeier was named the 2026 Senior Bowl MVP, following a stellar performance on Saturday.

Nussmeier appeared in three drives, leading the American team into the end zone on the first two drives, going 5-for-8 in the air, totaling 57 passing yards and a rushing touchdown.

He was named the starter for the American team. He opened the game with a 12-play, 68-yard drive that ended in a Nussmeier scoring on a three yard rushing touchdown.

Nussmeier’s touchdown was set up by a handful of passes, one of which to LSU teammate Barion Brown to move into the redzone.

Nussmeier and the American team’s offense got the ball back after Kentucky running back Seth McGowan fumbled on the National team’s opening drive.

A trio of runs set up a touchdown on the second drive, the American team decided to go for a two-point conversion, which Nussmeier found Notre Dame receiver Malachi Fields in the endzone for a successful conversion.

On the ensuing drive, Nussmeier fired a pass over the middle to Wyoming tight end John Michael Gyllenborg, but the ball slipped through Gyllenborg’s hands and into Nebraska safety Deshon Singleton’s hands for an interception.

That would be the end of his day, but it ultimately was enough to earn him the MVP award after the game.

Nussmeier has turned heads throughout his preparation for Senior Bowl, showcasing why he received a first-round NFL grade and Heisman trophy consideration in the preseason.

His core injury hindered his play later in the season, ultimately shutting his season down after starting nine games for the Tigers. His 1,927 yards, 12 touchdowns and five interceptions were viewed by many as a step down from his senior campaign, weakening his draft stock.

After the Senior Bowl, Nussmeier has made strides in boosting his stock and showing that the injury may have been the problem all along.

A couple of other Tigers joined Nussmeier and Brown in the Senior Bowl, with Aaron Anderson and Chris Hilton Jr. getting reps during the week.