As the 2025 college football season approaches, the quarterback position is loaded with talent. From campus vets such as Allar and Nussy, to transfer portal adds such as Mateer and Beck, there is no lack of talent in CFB this year. However, the talent gap is much closer between the top 10 guys this year than in years past.

1. Cade Klubnik, Clemson

Cade Klubnik has cemented himself as a top-tier quarterback, leading Clemson to an ACC Championship and a CFP berth in 2024. His breakout season showcased improved decision-making and deep-ball accuracy, making him a consensus top QB for 2025. With another year in Garrett Riley’s offense, Klubnik is poised for a potential Heisman run.

• 2024 Stats: 3,639 passing yards, 36 passing touchdowns, 463 rushing yards, 7 rushing touchdowns

2. John Mateer, Oklahoma

Transferring from Washington State to Oklahoma, John Mateer brings electrifying dual-threat ability and plenty of aura. His 2024 season was a breakout, with nearly 4,000 yards of total offense. He led the FBS in touchdowns in 2024 with 42. His quick release and playmaking will thrive in the SEC under coach Ben Arbuckle.

• 2024 Stats: 3,139 passing yards, 29 passing touchdowns, 826 rushing yards, 15 rushing touchdowns

3. Arch Manning, Texas

Arch Manning steps into the spotlight as Texas’ starter in 2025 after showing flashes of brilliance in limited action. His arm strength and surprising mobility make him a preseason Heisman favorite, especially under coach Sark. His upside, athleticism, and popularity make him the Heisman preseason frontrunner.

• 2024 Stats: 969 passing yards, 9 passing touchdowns, ~100 rushing yards, 1 rushing touchdown

4. Garrett Nussmeier, LSU

Garrett Nussmeier’s gunslinger mentality powered LSU’s offense in 2024, with elite arm talent producing big numbers. His turnover issues are a concern, but his toughness and ability to make any throw keep him in the top tier. His ceiling is CFP and Heisman finalist, but it will be interesting to see if the team can rally around Brian Kelly.

• 2024 Stats: 4,052 passing yards, 29 passing touchdowns, 93 rushing yards, 0 rushing touchdowns

5. Drew Allar, Penn State

Drew Allar’s physical tools and steady improvement led Penn State to the CFP semifinals in 2024. While he struggled at times in big games, his accuracy and arm strength make him a reliable leader for a national title contender. Mr. consistent with plenty of experience under his belt.

• 2024 Stats: 3,327 passing yards, 24 passing touchdowns, 302 rushing yards, 6 rushing touchdowns

6. LaNorris Sellers, South Carolina

LaNorris Sellers emerged as a dual-threat star in 2024, sparking South Carolina’s nine-win season. His Cam Newton-like running ability and late-season passing surge make him a breakout candidate for 2025. Physical tools and feel for the game gives him a very high ceiling.

• 2024 Stats: 2,534 passing yards, 18 passing touchdowns, 674 rushing yards, 7 rushing touchdowns

7. DJ Lagway, Florida

Freshman DJ Lagway took over midseason for Florida and dazzled with his deep-ball accuracy and poise. Despite some turnovers, his arm talent and mobility signal a bright future in 2025. If Lagway can stay healthy and if Billy Napier doesn’t lose the locker room, he could finish as the best QB in the country.

• 2024 Stats: 1,915 passing yards, 12 passing touchdowns, ~200 rushing yards, 2 rushing touchdowns

8. Sam Leavitt, Arizona State

Sam Leavitt’s transfer to Arizona State led to a Big 12 title and CFP appearance in 2024. His dual-threat play and low turnover rate make him a rising star for 2025. Time will tell if the loss of Cam Skattebo puts more stress on Leavitt and his offense.

• 2024 Stats: 2,885 passing yards, 24 passing touchdowns, 443 rushing yards, 5 rushing touchdowns

9. Carson Beck, Miami

Carson Beck’s 2024 season at Georgia was criticized despite solid numbers, leading to his transfer to Miami. His experience and arm talent make him a high-upside player in a new system, even if he can’t stop horny Snapchatting freshman chicks

• 2024 Stats: ~3,784 total offense (adjusted), 28 total touchdowns, 10 interceptions, ~200 rushing yards, 4 rushing touchdowns (estimated)

10. Nico Iamaleava, UCLA

Nico Iamaleava’s transfer to UCLA after a playoff season at Tennessee comes with challenges, but his arm strength and athleticism keep him in the top 10. His off-field drama raises questions, but I am not ready to completely quit on Nico. He has had great flashes in his career, that may resurface in Pasadena

• 2024 Stats: 2,616 passing yards, 19 passing touchdowns, 358 rushing yards, 3 rushing touchdowns

Honorable Mention: Haynes King, Georgia Tech

• The guy rocks. Imagine if he beat Georgia last year?

Final Thoughts

The 2025 quarterback class is deep, with veterans like Klubnik, Nussmeier, and Allar leading the way and young stars like Lagway, Mateer and Sellers poised to break out. With the talent gap being so close, all it may take this year for a QB to break out is one amazing game, or one giga flop. The field is wide open.

As always, thank you fellow ball knowers.

Stats sourced from NCAA.com, PFF, and ESPN unless otherwise noted.