College Football’s Quarterback Revamp
The 2024 season marked a significant transition in college football, as 11 teams bid farewell to their star quarterbacks who were drafted into the NFL. From Heisman Trophy winners to record-breakers, these departures left massive voids that needed to be filled. As we approach the midpoint of the season, it’s time to evaluate how these teams have adapted to their new signal-callers.
USC Trojans
Replacing Caleb Williams, the 2022 Heisman Trophy winner, was no easy task. Redshirt junior Miller Moss has stepped into the starting role, and while he’s shown flashes of brilliance, consistency remains an issue. Moss has thrown at least one interception in all four conference games, but his overall production is encouraging. With a shaky offensive line and mediocre run defense, Moss needs to regain his mojo to secure wins.
LSU Tigers
Garrett Nussmeier, a redshirt junior, has taken over for Jayden Daniels, the 2023 Heisman Trophy winner. Nussmeier’s resilience was on full display in a thrilling comeback against Ole Miss, where he led a 13-play, 75-yard touchdown drive to tie the game. While accuracy remains a concern, his patience and growth have been notable positives. With a strong running game and stout defense, LSU is poised for a CFP berth if Nussmeier continues to develop.
North Carolina Tar Heels
The Tar Heels have struggled to replace Drake Maye, the 2022 ACC Player of the Year. After injuries to Max Johnson and Conner Harrell, senior Jacolby Criswell has taken the reins. Criswell’s accuracy issues persist, but he’s shown flashes of his dual-threat ability. With a talented running back in Omarion Hampton and a shaky defense, Criswell must improve his passing efficiency to give UNC a chance at winning.
Washington Huskies
Will Rogers, a senior transfer from Mississippi State, has replaced Michael Penix Jr., the 2023 Maxwell Award winner. Rogers has been solid, completing 72.2% of his passes, but his production has dipped in recent games. With a talented receiving corps and running back Jonah Coleman, Rogers needs to find his rhythm again to lift Washington’s struggling offense.
Michigan Wolverines
The Wolverines have cycled through three quarterbacks, with Jack Tuttle currently at the helm. Michigan’s inability to develop a consistent starter has hindered its offense, which ranks 99th nationally in points per game. Tuttle’s experience and accuracy have been positives, but the Wolverines need more from their quarterback to compete in the Big Ten.
Oregon Ducks
Dillon Gabriel, a senior transfer from Oklahoma, has taken over for Bo Nix, the 2023 Heisman Trophy finalist. Gabriel’s accuracy and experience have been assets, but he’s struggled with turnovers and inconsistency. With a talented receiving corps and strong running game, Gabriel needs to limit his mistakes to propel Oregon back into the CFP conversation.
South Carolina Gamecocks
LaNorris Sellers, a redshirt freshman, has replaced Spencer Rattler, the 2023 co-team MVP. Sellers has shown flashes of his dual-threat ability, but his inexperience has led to turnovers and inconsistency. With a struggling defense and mediocre receiving corps, Sellers must grow quickly to give South Carolina a chance at winning.
Florida State Seminoles
Brock Glenn, a redshirt freshman, has taken over for Jordan Travis, the 2023 ACC Player of the Year. Glenn’s inexperience has been evident, and his accuracy issues have plagued the Seminoles. With a poor offensive line and struggling defense, Florida State needs Glenn to find his footing quickly to salvage its season.
Tennessee Volunteers
Nico Iamaleava, a redshirt freshman, has replaced Joe Milton, the 2022 Orange Bowl MVP. Iamaleava’s inexperience has shown in SEC play, but he’s demonstrated flashes of his dual-threat ability. With a strong defense and talented receiving corps, Iamaleava needs to limit his mistakes and find consistency to propel Tennessee back into the CFP conversation.
Kentucky Wildcats
Brock Vandagriff, a junior transfer from Georgia, has taken over for Devin Leary, the 2023 starter. Vandagriff has been solid, completing 66.1% of his passes, but his production has been hindered by a struggling offensive line. With a physical running game and talented receiving corps, Vandagriff needs to find more big-play opportunities to lift Kentucky’s offense.
Tulane Green Wave
Darian Mensah, a redshirt freshman, has replaced Michael Pratt, the 2023 AAC Offensive Player of the Year. Mensah has been impressive, throwing 10 touchdowns and only two interceptions, while showcasing his dual-threat ability. With a physical running game and stingy defense, Mensah needs to maintain his efficiency to propel Tulane toward an AAC title.
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