USC’s Miller Moss stands out as a player making the most of his opportunity after resisting the transfer portal. In a landscape where athletes frequently change schools for better prospects, Moss and LSU’s Garrett Nussmeier exemplify the rewards of remaining loyal to their programs.
Both Moss and Nussmeier were top-100 recruits who patiently waited behind Heisman Trophy winners before stepping into the spotlight with bowl victories in their first starts. With the quarterbacks ahead of them now in the NFL, Moss and Nussmeier are set to lead their respective teams as the undisputed starters this season.
These two players are prime examples of athletes who chose not to transfer, now seizing their chance to shine in their fourth or fifth seasons. They will face off in an exciting season opener on September 1, as No. 13 LSU takes on No. 23 USC in Las Vegas.
Nussmeier’s journey at LSU included just one start in his first three years, serving as a backup to the 2024 Heisman winner, Jayden Daniels. Instead of seeking a starting role elsewhere, he chose to stay put, driven by a sense of purpose.
“There’s obviously temptation,” Nussmeier shared. “I love playing the game of football. I wanted to be on the field. But I felt guided to LSU for a reason, and I didn’t think it was my time to leave.”
After Daniels opted out of the Reliaquest Bowl to prepare for the NFL draft, Nussmeier finally got his shot, performing spectacularly and earning MVP honors with 395 yards and three touchdowns in a thrilling win over Wisconsin.
Moss finds himself in a similar position as he begins his fourth season at USC. His commitment to the Trojans, along with his respect for his teammates and coaches, played a significant role in his decision to stay.
Having backed up 2022 Heisman winner Caleb Williams, who became the top overall draft pick, Moss showcased his skills in the Holiday Bowl, throwing for 372 yards and six touchdowns against Louisville.
Rather than resting on his impressive bowl performance, Moss emphasizes the importance of focusing on the present and building on his achievements.
“It was a positive moment for the team and me, but I don’t let it define my confidence,” Moss explained. “Confidence comes from the work I’ve put in and the process, especially when facing adversity.”
Several other players have also chosen to stay at their original schools and are set to take on significant roles this season:
Michigan Cs Raheem Anderson and Greg Crippen
The reigning national champions will have five new starters on the offensive line. Anderson and Crippen, both entering their fourth seasons, are strong candidates for the center position, alongside Dominick Giudice, who has experience at both guard and center. Crippen has played in six games in 2021, one in 2022, and nine last season, while Anderson has seen action in one game in 2021, four in 2022, and one last year.
Boise State WR Austin Bolt
Bolt, with just six career receptions for 175 yards, demonstrated his potential late last season with a 42-yard touchdown against New Mexico and a 57-yard score in the Mountain West Conference championship. After missing the entire 2022 season due to injury, he played eight games last year, starting five, and is poised to make a significant impact in his fifth season at Boise State.
Penn State C Nick Dawkins
Dawkins, despite never starting a game at Penn State, has earned respect enough to be named a team captain this year. The eighth-ranked Nittany Lions are counting on the fifth-year senior to excel in a starting role, especially after having centers drafted in the last two years.
Ohio State TE Gee Scott
Scott, a top-100 recruit from the 2020 class, transitioned from wide receiver to tight end in 2021. He made his first three career starts last season, catching 10 passes for 70 yards and a touchdown. With 20 career receptions for 140 yards and two scores, Scott is expected to take the field as the primary tight end for the second-ranked Buckeyes this season.
Alabama DB DeVonta Smith
Sharing a name with the former Alabama receiver who won the Heisman, this DeVonta Smith has primarily contributed on special teams over the past two years. After an injury-limited season last year, he is now healthy and ready to compete for a starting position as No. 5 Alabama rebuilds its secondary.
Georgia C Jared Wilson
