The 2025 college football season is set to deliver another batch of quarterback drama, breakout performances, and potential Heisman heroics. Whether it’s a familiar name gunning for glory or a young gun ready to steal the spotlight, this fall’s QB class is loaded with intrigue.
From Power Five powerhouses to upstart programs trying to crash the party, these are the 15 quarterbacks poised to dominate headlines this season. If you don’t know these names already, you definitely will by November.
15. Michael Van Buren Jr., LSU
He may not be LSU’s starter, but Van Buren is one of the most intriguing backup quarterbacks in the country. With prior flashes of brilliance, he’s just one opportunity away from making a profound impact.
14. Devon Dampier, Utah
Dampier brings electricity to Utah’s offense. His dual-threat skill set should make the Utes a tough out in the new-look Big 12.
13. LaNorris Sellers, South Carolina
If he puts it all together, Sellers has the tools to become a star this season. He’s got the arm, the legs, and the stage in the always-unpredictable SEC.
12. Luke Altmyer, Illinois
Altmyer has quietly become one of the steadiest quarterbacks in the Big Ten. If Illinois makes noise this year, he’ll be a big reason why.
11. Sawyer Robertson, Baylor
After stabilizing Baylor’s season last year, Robertson enters 2025 with momentum and experience. He may not be flashy, but he gets the job done—and that matters in a wide-open Big 12.
10. Dante Moore, Oregon
Moore has all the tools to shine in Eugene. If he delivers early, he’ll have Ducks fans dreaming of a playoff run.
9. Kevin Jennings, SMU
Jennings was one of 2024’s biggest surprises, putting up elite numbers and leading SMU to big wins. He could be the next Group of Five star to break into the national spotlight with another strong season.
8. Julian Sayin, Ohio State
Sayin hasn’t taken a starting snap yet, but Buckeyes fans are buzzing. With a five-star pedigree and top-tier talent around him, he’s set up for a monster debut season.
7. Carson Beck, Miami (FL)
Beck brings experience and SEC seasoning to a Hurricanes team hungry to return to relevance. If he plays like he did in 2023, the U could return quickly.
6. DJ Lagway, Florida
Lagway’s talent is off the charts, and he’s already shown serious upside. He might bring Florida back into the national conversation if he can stay healthy.
5. Sam Leavitt, Arizona State
Leavitt turned heads last season and now enters 2025 as one of the top dual-threat QBs in the country. If he keeps trending upward, the Sun Devils could surprise everyone.
4. Drew Allar, Penn State
Allar chose to return for one more ride, and the Nittany Lions couldn’t be happier. He’ll be the key to Penn State’s playoff hopes with his big arm and leadership.
3. Arch Manning, Texas
It’s finally Arch’s team in Austin, and all eyes will be on him. With that last name and big-time potential, expectations are through the roof.
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2. Garrett Nussmeier, LSU
Nussmeier enters the season with experience, swagger, and one of the strongest arms in college football. If LSU makes a title run, he’ll be leading the charge.
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1. Cade Klubnik, Clemson
Klubnik is the guy to beat heading into 2025. He’s got the stats, the spotlight, and a real shot at hoisting the Heisman when it’s all said and done.
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