As the bayou buzzes with anticipation for the 2025 season, all eyes are on Garrett Nussmeier, LSU’s rising star under center. The former backup turned would-be savior is poised to take Baton Rouge by storm, with Brian Kelly and his staff betting big on a deep playoff run. But while the present may be lit by the glow of Nussmeier’s arm talent, the future remains a mystery—and LSU is scrambling to shape it before time runs out.
Enter Bowe Bentley, the electrifying four-star dual-threat quarterback from the 2026 class who might just be the answer to LSU’s long-term quarterback prayers. Bentley is no ordinary recruit—he’s the final major QB domino left standing in the 2026 recruiting cycle, and LSU is in a dogfight with Oklahoma to secure his services.
The Quiet Storm That Became a Recruiting Hurricane
Just a few short months ago, LSU was barely in Bentley’s periphery. The Tigers were trailing behind programs like Georgia and Oklahoma, with Bentley’s recruitment largely flying under the radar in Baton Rouge. But then came a transformational visit in late March—a campus tour that turned into a full-blown courtship. What seemed like a long shot suddenly became a serious pursuit.
On Saturday, Bentley officially announced his Top 2 programs: LSU and Oklahoma, eliminating Georgia after the Bulldogs locked in five-star quarterback Jared Curtis. The battlefield has been cleared, and now it’s a mano a mano duel between the Sooners and the Tigers.
Bentley is scheduled to visit Oklahoma on June 13 and LSU on June 20. The timing couldn’t be more dramatic. A decision is expected shortly after these visits, making this summer one of the most pivotal recruiting periods in LSU’s recent history.
Why Bentley Is the Crown Jewel of the 2026 Class
Let’s be clear: Bentley isn’t just a warm body to fill a depth chart. He’s a program-defining talent. Standing tall with a smooth delivery, exceptional football IQ, lightning-fast processing, and deceptive speed, Bentley has all the tools to become a starter as a true freshman. Think Garrett Nussmeier with wheels—a high-octane, dual-threat quarterback capable of extending plays and igniting an offense with both his arm and legs.
And LSU needs that. Desperately.
Once Nussmeier declares for the NFL—which most scouts predict will happen next spring—LSU’s quarterback room turns from gold-plated to question mark-laden.
The Tigers’ QB Conundrum: A Shaky Future Without Bentley
Behind Nussmeier, things get murky:
- Michael Van Buren, a transfer from Mississippi State, brings experience and some sizzle. He might get the first shot next spring, but there are questions about his ceiling.
- Colin Hurley, a once-promising recruit, is still a mystery after a harrowing car accident slowed his development.
- Ju’Juan Johnson, the ultimate position nomad, has gone from safety to running back and now—somewhat unbelievably—back to quarterback. A great athlete, sure, but hardly the profile you want penciled in as your QB3 in a title-chasing program.
Without Bentley, LSU’s quarterback future starts looking a lot like a high-wire act with no safety net.
Why This Battle with Oklahoma Is Bigger Than Just One Player
The stakes are colossal. Not only is Bentley the last elite four-star QB on the board, but he also represents a litmus test for LSU’s ability to recruit and retain top-tier quarterback talent in the NIL era. With both LSU and Oklahoma facing significant uncertainty under center next season, the winner of Bentley’s commitment gains a critical edge in stability, recruiting optics, and fan momentum.
Oklahoma, with transfer John Mateer likely heading to the NFL after a brief stint, is pushing hard. But LSU, with its rich tradition, vibrant fanbase, and the magnetic allure of Tiger Stadium under the lights, might just have the edge—especially if they roll out the red carpet during Bentley’s upcoming visit.
Bowe Bentley: The Baton Rouge Chosen One?
If Brian Kelly can seal the deal and land Bentley, it won’t just be a win on the recruiting trail—it will be a potential changing of the guard at quarterback. A move that could keep LSU’s offensive engine running smoothly long after Nussmeier departs for Sundays.
Bentley has the makings of a legend. LSU just needs to close the deal.
The drama is heating up. The clock is ticking. And down in Death Valley, the future might just be arriving sooner than anyone expected.
